1. ESSD Week 2005: Building Local Capacity through Regional Networks Communities of Practice in the MENA Region Erik Johnson, WBIKO

2. MDF Activities Why? – activity in between big conferences Desk Study of MENA Regional Networks/CoPs 2002 – 29 respondents 2004 Update Seed Money for 3 Communities of Practice Access to Information Sustainable Livelihoods in Drylands Use of ICTs in the Classroom (teachers)

3. Findings of Regional CoP Study Concept of CoPs is not well understood, and often taken as short-term activities Heavy reliance on institutional affiliation – mostly with donors Networks are more geared toward policy outcomes than knowledge exchange Hosted mostly in Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt Why? - more aid, civil society and language Themes – gender, governance, environment No focus on impact – too early

4. Lessons from MDF CoPs Leadership is the most important factor in determining CoP success – gauge passion and commitment Networking must be organic – member demand must be clear Technology does not play a large role yet – best for informal interaction The issue-base must be solid for the community to coalesce Cost-benefit of CoPs compared to courses appears favorable – one caveat is time intensity of facilitation