EIS aims to help Sub-Saharan African countries to set up operational "environment information systems" (any organised system for environmental data management, including geographic information systems (GIS) containing environmental datasets) to meet the priority demands of resource users, planners and decision-makers for better renewable resource management. This includes support for: assessment of environmental information needs; an assessment of the current situation at country level; creation of strategy plans; formation of investment plans; help with implementation. Includes their application with the framework of the National Environmental Action Plans (NEAP) programme. Also operates as an information clearinghouse. Produces a quarterly newsletter and an annual report on the state of EIS systems in Sub-Saharan Africa. EIS is hosted by the World Bank's Africa Technical Department (AFTES), part of the Environmentally Sustainable Development Division.

WWW site has information on EIS and its working groups, full text of latest EIS News, links to related sites.

Operates a discussion list called Africa-eis.