FBIS AFRICA
Freshwater biodiversity data from Africa, for Africa
Africa’s freshwater ecosystems support a remarkable diversity of species and sustain the lives of millions of people across the continent. However, many of Africa’s freshwater systems are degrading due to threats like habitat destruction, species over exploitation and climate change. This poses serious risk to biodiversity and ecosystem services.
BETTER DATA = BETTER DECISIONS
There is an urgent need for improved and strategic management, protection and restoration of Africa’s freshwater ecosystems. This requires access to reliable, current, comprehensive data on freshwater biodiversity. Access to freshwater biodiversity data in Africa is however currently limited and existing platforms do not meet Africa’s freshwater monitoring and management needs.
FBIS AFRICA
Rising to the challenge of these data and conservation challenges, and building on foundations laid by FBIS South Africa, the FRC and partners will develop a new freshwater biodiversity information system for Africa – FBIS Africa. The platform will:
- Improve access to freshwater biodiversity data across Africa,
- Provide powerful tools for analysing these data
- Function as user-friendly African freshwater data repository
The overarching aim of the platform will improve conservation and support sustainable utilization of Africa’s freshwater ecosystems.
Platform impact will be measured by the quantity and quality of data made available through the platform, by the capacity developed for using the platform, and by the number of management and conservation actions supported by the platform.
Image credits: Michel Roggo, IUCN, American Oceans, Natural Earth
PARTNERS AND SPONSORS
