Author: OSS, CENED
Published in: 2008
Project:
Theme: land management
Type: Studies and reports
ISBN: 978-9973-856-27-2
Country:
The Great Green Wall Initiative of the Sahara and the Sahel
Since the early 20th century, natural ramparts have been erected around spaces which are vital to local communities in the circum-Sahoron region. Initially aimed as a protection against encroaching sand and erosion, green belts (trees planted around ogglomerotionsl and green barriers (intensive afforestation on large tracts of land) have gradually evolved into exploitable and productive structures, thus contributing to improving local incomes.
Their concept and implementation vary according to country. In Mauritania, Burkina Faso and Kenya, for instance, communities participate fully in their set-up and maintenance.
The idea of a great green wall came as response to a major concern: tackling the combined effects of drought and natural resources degradation in rural environments.
Building on the experiences of green belts and barriers in circum-Saharan countries, the present note sheds light on the concept of the Great Green Wall Initiative, and suggests practical modalities of implementation.
