The Inaugural Conference of the Riyadh Global Drought Resilience Partnership (RGDRP) will bring together senior decision-makers and key stakeholders across sectors to finalize the Partnership’s governance framework and strategic direction. Launched at UNCCD COP16, the RGDRP aims to help countries shift from reactive drought response to proactive preparedness through early warning systems, improved land and water management, and financial tools. The Partnership brings together governments, financial institutions and technical partners to coordinate efforts and build resilience. It complements initiatives like the Middle East Green Initiative and leverages tools from the International Drought Resilience Alliance and the Integrated Drought Management Programme.

The Inaugural Conference will:

• Validate the governance arrangements of the Partnership, including announcing its Steering Committee
• Confirm hosting arrangements for the Secretariat and Fund
• Define next steps for implementation, resource mobilization and alignment with global drought resilience initiatives ahead of UNCCD COP17.

This milestone event will convene government officials, development partners, civil society, researchers and private sector actors to secure broad endorsement, mobilize coordinated action and lay the groundwork for long-term drought resilience.