Africa and the International Year of Planet Earth (IYPE): Promoting Earth sciences-based decision making in Africa

摘要

Under the auspices of UNESCO and the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS), the United Nations proclaimed the year 2008 as the 'International Year of Planet Earth' (IYPE). This procla-mation afforded geoscientists throughout the world the opportu-nity to embark on a triennium (2007-2009) of information dissemination to decision-makers and the general public on how knowledge and application of the Earth sciences can contribute to a healthier, wealthier and happier future. The 'Year' also empha-sised the need for fellow Earth scientists, knowledgeable in various aspects of Planet Earth to use their expertise for the benefit of the world's population. Apart from having played a major role in introducing the IYPE concept into the United Nations system through the actions of the United Republic of Tanzania, the African continent has been ac-tively involved in IYPE activities throughout the triennium. Na-tional Committees for IYPE were set up in 16 countries in Africa, and an important event to launch the IYPE in the continent was held in Arusha in May 2008, under the patronage of His Excellency President Jakaya M. Kikwete of Tanzania. During this event, the Director General of UNESCO, Koichiro Matsuura, addressed the 300 participants from 20 nations represented in the audience, among whom were many invited students from African countries. In his address, he emphasised that 'The complexity and importance of the issue at hand demand effective collaboration among a broad range of partners. It is imperative that we work together and coherently.'