Context
Transhumance – the practice of moving herds from one grazing ground to another in a seasonal cycle – is the predominant form of livestock farming in the Lake Chad region between Central and West Africa. It contributes significantly to food security, social cohesion and economic development in the region. The pastoral economy generates jobs, income and tax revenues.
However, the practice is increasingly under threat from climate change, ever scarcer natural resources such as grazing land, and strong population growth. Traditional, peaceful relations between nomadic cattle breeders and sedentary farmers are also at risk. These are based on long-established customs and unwritten social agreements.
Objective
Transboundary transhumance and the economic resilience of countries bordering Lake Chad have improved, enabling farmers and cattle breeders to live together peacefully.
Approach
The project advises regional organisations and authorities on sustainable governance that incorporates agriculture and pastoral livestock farming. It also implements a harmonised integrated resource management. It provides support to strengthen the local economy, expand medical services for people and animals and manage transhumance collectively with those involved. The project also organises dialogue and knowledge sharing between the various stakeholders in the countries. It thus contributes to a shared, positive vision of transhumance in the Sahel.
The project receives funding from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Union (EU).
Last update: June 2025