ASAL Humanitarian Network (AHN)

Bridging Systems for Lasting Impact in ASAL Regions

Climate-Resilient HDP Nexus & Partnerships

We integrate, systems-based responses that address the interlinked challenges of humanitarian need, development gaps, climate vulnerability, and conflict dynamics across arid and semi-arid lands.

Beautiful desert landscape

Fragmented programming undermines sustainability in fragile environments. AHN mitigates this risk by promoting coordinated, multi-sectoral approaches rooted in county development priorities, local governance structures, and contextual evidence. The network supports its members to engage in cross-sector planning, climate resilience building, and digital coordination frameworks that strengthen institutional responsiveness and community ownership.

Strategic partnerships with government, civil society, and the private sector underpin AHN’s approach. The network serves as a broker of inclusive collaboration, facilitating policy alignment, knowledge exchange, and innovation across local, national, and continental levels. These partnerships reinforce adaptive governance systems and ensure that ASAL communities remain central to decision-making and solution design.

Integrated Localized Programming

AHN supports member organizations to deliver context-specific programming that connects humanitarian assistance with long-term development and peacebuilding goals. Interventions are aligned with county plans and designed to reduce chronic vulnerability while strengthening local capacities for inclusive governance and conflict resolution.

Strategic Enablers:

  • Coordination of joint action plans with county governments (CIDPs/ADPs)
  • Facilitation of community-managed disaster risk reduction (CMDRR) strategies
  • Technical support for survivor- and community-led response (SCLR) models
  • Guidance on conflict-sensitive and socially inclusive program design

Climate Adaptation and Resilience Building

AHN enhances the ability of member organizations to support climate-resilient systems through ecosystem-based adaptation, anticipatory planning, and risk-informed investments. Programming is guided by locally defined priorities, indigenous knowledge, and the principles of environmental sustainability.

Strategic Enablers:

  • Engagement with County Climate Change Funds (CCCF) and policy frameworks
  • Promotion of climate-smart agriculture, pastoralism, and water systems
  • Implementation of localized early warning systems and anticipatory action protocols
  • Capacity development on climate risk analysis and ecosystem restoration

Strategic Partnerships and Digital Coordination

AHN facilitates the development of inclusive partnerships and real-time coordination mechanisms that enhance efficiency, transparency, and shared accountability. Member organizations are supported to engage in collaborative innovation, leverage digital tools, and align with regional frameworks to amplify impact.

Strategic Enablers:

  • Design and deployment of digital platforms for network-wide coordination
  • Development of public-private partnerships and strategic alliances
  • Facilitation of multi-sector knowledge exchange and cross-thematic collaboration
  • Representation in regional and continental coordination platforms (e.g., AU, NEAR)