This a framework used to assess the vulnerability of surface and groundwater to human land uses, within an integrated river basin management approach. In Africa, the project has provided significant baseline information on vulnerable aquifers fed by the River Nile in North Africa, serious freshwater shortages in West Africa, the variable rain-fed aquifers of Eastern Africa, and the uneven distribution of freshwater in Southern Africa. More detailed assessments on the rivers, lakes and aquifer basins are being carried out in Africa, including Central Africa and the Indian ocean Islands. Assessments have begun in Asia. Latin America and the Caribbean will follow soon. This approach will also include the Integrated Water Resource management. There is a specific focus on groundwater vulnerability.