Water, peace and security in the Sahel

Violent conflict in Mali’s Inner Niger Delta, the second largest wetland in Africa, has risen alarmingly since 2015. The degradation of Sahelian wetlands leads to water and food scarcity and further land degradation. This can affect the social, economic and political stability of the region and be one of the drivers of out-migration and conflicts over access to land and water. Good management of natural resources is key to resolve conflicts within and among different user groups such as herders, farmers and fishers. It also prevents violence within and between communities and the state and fosters peaceful, inclusive societies. This session aims to discuss what is needed to bring wetlands into the equation of water and security to enhance community resilience.