The United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) and for Central Africa (UNOCA) recently hosted a workshop in Dakar focused on enhancing peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, as well as the effective management of transhumance. The event, held on 26-27 February 2025, brought together over thirty participants from various countries in these regions, including members of civil society organizations and representatives from regional bodies and international partners.
During the workshop, discussions centered on the intricate relationship between farmers and herders, exploring the factors that impact their interactions in West and Central Africa. Key topics addressed included competition for natural resources, such as land and water, seasonal livestock migrations, and policies related to rural land management. These conversations underscored the importance of addressing these dynamics to ensure regional governance and stability.
A highlight of the workshop was the development of a work plan for the Community of Practice on Farmer-Pastoralist Dynamics in West and Central Africa. This plan outlined the objectives of the community, key thematic areas for exploration, priority actions, implementation timeline, partner involvement, and monitoring mechanisms. The participants also put forth recommendations to promote peaceful cohabitation between farmers and herders, emphasizing the need for harmonization of approaches by ECOWAS and ECCAS.
In his remarks at the opening ceremony, Leonardo Santos Simão, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations and Head of UNOWAS, emphasized the significance of the workshop in addressing the challenges faced in fostering peaceful coexistence and sustainable livelihoods between farmers and herders. He highlighted the potential governance challenges posed by transboundary transhumance and stressed the importance of proper management to prevent conflicts that could threaten social cohesion and regional stability.
Overall, the workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange ideas, and collaborate on strategies to enhance peaceful coexistence and mitigate conflicts related to access to resources and livestock mobility. The outcomes of the workshop are expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to promote sustainable agriculture, economic diversification, and resilient communities in West and Central Africa.
This article was distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS).
