The Horn of Africa faces multiple challenges from natural hazards, particularly relating to   too little or too much rainfall, but also including seismic activity. Hazards are increasing in frequency and intensity, in part due to the changing climate, and are compounded into disasters by the challenges of poverty eradication and sustainable development. Building capacity and institutional strengthening at the regional level across the Horn to reduce the adverse effects of such events is fundamental for long-term human security and sustainable development.

The human cost of such hazards and disasters has been lessened by the innovative use of technology, including, among others, the use of forecasting and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS). GIS uses and analyses geographic data to address many issues including environmental concerns. More widespread use of GIS by countries in the region has led to better-informed decision-making around disaster risk reduction (DRR) and response planning. It is also playing an important role in supporting communities to prevent and respond to complex emergencies.

Continued capacity building work by organisations such as the UN Institute for Training and Research and its Operational Satellite Applications Programme (UNITAR/UNOSAT) can strengthen regional capabilities of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and its members states in building resilience and better protecting vulnerable communities.