Desertification can generally be defined as "land degradation in arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas resulting mainly from adverse human impact and climate variation. This phenomenon overlaps with a number of related environmental issues such as climate change, population growth, trade and biodiversity.

Namibia signed the Convention in 1994 and ratified it on 16 May 1997; it's date of entry into force was 14 August 1997.

The Convention focuses on the plight of Africa, and aims especially to address issues such as food security, environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Namibia's status as the driest nation in the sub-Saharan Africa prompted it, in 1994, to establish a National Programme to Combat Desertification (NAPCOD).

Click here to read the full text of the convention.

Namibia's official contact person: Shirley Bethune