The main objectives of the regional workshop were as follows:
- To build the capacity of participants representing NIFUs from 11 countries in Near East and North Africa region in ICM and KM to contribute not only to the development of their NAIS but also to the NERAKIN regional network;
- To strengthen the capacities of participants in documenting key weakness and threats as well as challenges and opportunities using SWOT analysis and putting forward solutions/recommendations at national level;
- To strengthen the capacities of participants in identifying their national country priorities for early implementation along with actions required to be taken for successful implementation that will play an important role in the development of their NAIS;
- To raise awareness of participants to the potential for improving linkages and sharing information and knowledge between researchers and other stakeholders using ICM tools;
- To increase participants understanding and participation in Regional Agricultural Information System and the concept, structure and management of NERAKIN, and to identify necessary changes to adapt it to the needs of participating countries.