The Knowledge Networks Agency (KNA) for the MENA Region

In response to increasing demand from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) for expertise and knowledge services, the World Bank Group, with technical and financial support from the city of Marseilles, has opened a technical office, the MENA Knowledge Networks Agency (KNA), in Marseilles, France.

The objective of the KNA is to build capacity for knowledge sharing and learning in the MENA region. The KNA’s proximity to the region enables it to work with regional institutions to identify the demand for knowledge in key areas and to organize learning activities in response. These MENA institutions (centers of excellence, training centers, thematic networks, and communities of practice) at the national, subregional, and regional levels are playing a lead role as knowledge connectors and providers.

Located in Europe, the KNA draws on a wealth of European training and knowledge resources to support MENA institutions. The KNA works closely with the World Bank European offices which have already established numerous contacts and partnerships with European institutions. KNA is leveraging existing partnerships between Europe and MENA and explore new ones including those between cities, regional governments, universities, think tanks, the private sector, and chambers of commerce. The KNA also reinforces synergies between the World Bank’s MENA region capacity-building programs and those of the European Commission.

In its initial phase, the KNA has fostered activity in the following thematic area: Urban and Local Governance,  and different Related Activities.

All these activities are leveraging modern technology to the extent possible. As part of the World Bank Global Development Learning Network (GDLN), the KNA is fully equipped with a video conference center, providing interactive access to more than 100 countries, thereby extending geographic outreach and increasing cost effectiveness.

KNA activities are led by a small team of experts who helps strengthen the various thematic programs for the MENA region. Other international institutions have also expressed an interest in contributing to the Knowledge Network Agency (KNA).