Ninh Thuan Province, Vietnam's driest region, is facing an unprecedented drought with devastating effects on its agriculture, economy, and water security. This case study explores the crisis, from dried-up reservoirs and livestock fatalities to the struggle of residents relying on scarce groundwater and bottled water for survival. Despite short-term measures, such as reducing agricultural activities, the absence of long-term strategies leaves the province vulnerable to recurring droughts. The study emphasizes the need for sustainable solutions, including diversifying local livelihoods, integrating nature-based solutions like agroforestry and wetland restoration, and scaling up innovative water technologies such as wind-powered desalination. As the 2024 UNCCD COP16 approaches, it raises an essential question: How can we move from reactive to proactive drought management and secure a sustainable future for drought-prone regions like Ninh Thuan?
