We express our sincere thanks to the Regional Support Project for Pastoralism in the Sahel (PRAPS-2 BF), which helped raise the visibility of TIN HINAN during this important event. A group photo was taken of all participants.
The theme chosen by the National Multi-Stakeholder Platform on Land (PMAF) for the thematic conference held on Tuesday, May 20 in Ouagadougou is “Pastoralism in Burkina Faso, What Future?” Officials were seated at the presidium.
As the first event of its kind in the country known as the Land of Upright People, this day aims to recognize the importance of pastoralism in food security, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of rural communities. Organizers explained that this initiative is part of a broader effort to promote and protect pastoralism.
According to Dr. Jean Simporé, Technical Advisor to the Minister Delegate for Animal Resources and himself a pastoralist, International Pastoralism Day represents global recognition. He emphasized the importance of this event for specific communities. He stated that pastoralism has a rightful place in the national economy, in cultural traditions, and in daily life. He stressed that it is an activity worth developing to ensure its economic contribution is fully visible. The conference, he said, was organized to encourage reflection on the future of pastoralism in Burkina Faso, especially at a time when the country is facing a severe security crisis.
In addition to security issues, Fatimata Valéa, Chair of the Board of the Multi-Stakeholder Platform for Land in Burkina Faso, also addressed the challenges posed by climate change and land insecurity. She explained that pastoralism faces difficulties when it comes to securing land for pastoral infrastructure. Though corridors for livestock and grazing areas are being created, they are often blocked or taken over. This is especially problematic now due to urban development. Many areas that once served pastoral needs have been sold, and land available for pastoralism continues to shrink each year. This is why the platform seized the opportunity of International Pastoralism Day to alert everyone, including decision-makers, about the future of pastoralism in Burkina Faso. She warned that if nothing is done, pastoralism will be in serious trouble.
She added that everyone is aware of how beneficial the sector is for the population. It is up to us to prove that pastoralism is a real alternative for adapting to climate change and strengthening the economy. For example, she pointed out that livestock raising is very accessible for young people and does not require major investment. Since animals search for natural resources on their own, which are free, pastoralism is a light and manageable activity. If this system disappears, everything will need to be purchased, which would make it too burdensome.
She also mentioned that the day’s program includes presentations, discussions, and key recommendations that will be shared with leaders.
TIN HINAN, one of the pastoralist NGOs, speaks out
Kadidia Diallo, President of the Alawalo Association in Sapouy and a member of TIN HINAN, warmly praised the event. She said it was a great joy to attend and that words could hardly express how meaningful the day was. She emphasized how the event highlighted the daily struggles of pastoralist women, their efforts to give meaning to their lives, and the importance of cultural identity. She expressed how honored she was to be part of it.
She explained that what participants expect from authorities is support after the event. They came with traditional products, but there is still a lack of means to improve them. She called for assistance to help them present their natural, healthy, and edible products more effectively. With the right support, they could improve their packaging and overall product quality.
She also raised concerns about how insecurity has affected women in the pastoral sector. Women can no longer work freely. They face job insecurity, a breakdown in social cohesion, and numerous other difficulties.
Pastoralism remains a central pillar of Burkina Faso’s economy and culture. It contributes 14 percent to the added value of the primary sector and 4.1 percent to the national GDP, according to the 2021 Pastoral Initiative Report. The sector plays a vital role in food security, rural employment, and exports. In fact, livestock products rank fifth among the country's main exports.
However, this sector faces increasingly complex and interrelated challenges. Climate change, land pressure, insecurity, and social and economic fragility are all taking a toll. The conclusions of the 2024 Nouakchott Forum highlighted the urgent need to act to safeguard this strategic sector.
Pastoralism and productive rangelands are also key components for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It was in this context that the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations declared the International Pastoralism Day in 2022. The first celebration took place on June 25, 2023, in France.
Author : benedicteoued@gmail.com
