The Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) and Africa Program, through the Regional Center for Mapping of Resources for Development (RCMRD) in collaboration with ESIPPS International, organized a wetlands Vulnerability Analysis online training from 7^th to 9^th February 2023.

The three-day course aimed at providing knowledge and technical skills in wetland vulnerability analysis technologies and services to promote more sustainable long-term management of wetland resources in the Eastern Africa region. RCMRD, ESIPPS and partners developed a Wetlands Vulnerability Assessment (WVA) tool that incorporates the use of Earth Observation (EO) products in assessing Wetlands Vulnerability.

The aim of the wetlands vulnerability analysis tool is to enhance Wetlands Monitoring and assessment using geo-information processing tools and techniques and to empower wetlands monitoring institutions and other authorities with capacities to identify the risk thresholds of wetlands ecosystems for intervention and restoration opportunities.

After the three days, the participants were empowered with the skill of using Earth Observation data and tools in assessing of wetland vulnerability and the art of packaging and disseminating information generated by wetland vulnerability analysis tool.

The training targeted the following professionals;

 Land management and administration

 Energy and hydrothermal

 Wetlands Management authorities including Water Resources Management Authorities

 Academia and Research institutions

 Private Sector NGOs, CBOs and other conservation groups

 Environment and environment impact assessment.

 Mapping and land cover inventorying

 Wildlife Resource Management

 Local community representatives

 Agriculture and crop research institutions

 Infrastructure development and management

Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, providing a range of important ecological, social, and economic benefits. However, they are also among the most vulnerable ecosystems, facing numerous threats such as habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation, pollution, climate change, and invasive species. To effectively conserve and manage wetlands, it is essential to have a sound understanding of their vulnerability to these threats and the tools and techniques to assess and monitor their health and resilience.

One way to enhance our understanding of wetlands vulnerability analysis is through training. The course provided participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to carry out vulnerability assessments, including identifying vulnerable wetland ecosystems, assessing their sensitivity, exposure, and adaptive capacity, and developing strategies for their conservation and management.

In conclusion, the online training course on wetlands vulnerability analysis offered a valuable opportunity for enhancing the understanding of wetland ecosystems and their vulnerability to threats.