Successful Fieldwork in Asmara Advances Urban Water Security Research under the NBS4WATER Project

Asmara, Eritrea – Dr. Blal Adem Esmail, a senior researcher from GLOMOS Eurac Research, has successfully concluded a comprehensive fieldwork expedition in Asmara as part of the NBS4WATER project. Hosted by the Asmara Heritage Project (AHP), the fieldwork—conducted between February 15 and March 7, 2025—focused on gathering diverse expert perspectives on urban water security challenges in the Greater Asmara Area.

During the visit, Dr. Adem Esmail engaged with experts and stakeholders from various sectors, collecting valuable socio-economic, spatial, and climate data to support water management and environmental sustainability efforts. He conducted site visits to the Toker and Mai Nefhi watersheds, accompanied by specialists from the Department of Water Resources within the Ministry of Land, Water, and Environment. In addition to extensive catchment treatment measures, the team examined critical water infrastructure, including treatment plants and pumping stations, to assess current conditions and future needs.

A key highlight of the visit was Dr. Adem Esmail’s seminar at Mai Nefhi College of Engineering, titled "Ecosystem Services for Sustainable Policy and Decision-making: Examples of Multi-scale Applications in the Eritrean Context." The event attracted nearly 70 students and faculty members, fostering discussions on ecosystem-based solutions for water security. Additionally, he participated in a high-level meeting with the Department of Civil Engineering at Mai Nefhi College and the Department of Water Resources, emphasizing the urgent need to establish a new Department of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering.

Looking ahead, the insights gained from this fieldwork will inform the next major phase of the NBS4WATER project—the Impact Chain and Scenario Workshop, tentatively scheduled for the last two weeks of August 2025. This workshop will bring together experts and stakeholders from Eritrea’s water sector to assess water scarcity risks and explore potential adaptation strategies.

Dr. Adem Esmail’s fieldwork marks a significant milestone in advancing evidence-based solutions for urban water security and resilience in Asmara. His engagement with local institutions and policymakers underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling the region’s pressing water challenges.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

• Dr Blal Adem Esmail
• blal.ademesmail@eurac.edu
• GLOMOS Center for Global Mountain Safeguard Research, Eurac Research
• Bolzano, Italy