A4Life will quantify the potential of sand rivers in Sub-Saharan Africa to provide reliable water for farmer-led irrigation development (SDG 2), while recognizing the importance of preserving the natural ecosystems along sand rivers (SDG 6). Given the challenges associated with climate as well as socio-economic change, establishing this potential is urgent. These findings can help government agencies and development banks make evidence-based decisions about critical investments to support resource-poor households in African drylands. At least 1 million households might benefit and strengthen their resilience (SDG 13). A4Life thus paves ways for inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development in fragile African landscapes.