At the ReSAKSS Annual Conference 2017 in Mozambique, SNV Netherlands Development Organization and IFPRI/ReSAKSS hosted a panel discussion, drawing from their experiences in evidence-based policy processes and on-the-ground implementation of innovative practices that strengthen climate information, and market systems for pastoralists. The objective was to provide a set of recommendations on suitable climate-smart practices, and policy considerations that can feed into evidence-based policy planning processes as well as investment plans.

In reconfirming the goals of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), the Malabo Declaration emphasized the need for accelerated efforts toward making livelihoods and production systems resilient to climate change. Among the areas most affected by climate change in Africa are its drylands. As the temperature in these areas are predicted to rise much faster than global averages, the consequences of climate change will be felt earlier and more intensely than in other regions. The increase and frequency of extreme weather events, especially droughts, compromises the ability of millions of pastoralists to cope with and recover from shocks and could lead to an increase in poverty levels which further increases their vulnerability. 

Creating a strong and resilient pastoral sector is vital to realize sustainable development in African countries, as well as to improve the security situation and reduce conflicts. With the appropriate governance and natural resource management system in place, pastoralism can be a more resilient and cost-effective livelihood system in drylands. In order to achieve this, it is vital that pastoralists’ needs are addressed in the formulation of relevant policies, especially those related to climate change. These policies need to be substantiated by a set of sound climate-smart practices that increase pastoralists’ resilience and can bring about change at scale.

Read more about the side event here