From November 6 to 8, 2024, the High-Level Forum on Pastoralism, Nouakchott + 10, was held in Nouakchott, Mauritania. The event saw participation from various stakeholders interested in pastoralism in West Africa and the Sahel region.
The ECOWAS Commission was represented by H.E. Massandjé Touré-Litse, Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture. She led a delegation that included officials from the Directorate of Agriculture and the Regional Animal Health Center.
Pastoralism is a significant part of the livestock systems in West Africa and the Sahel, contributing greatly to the economy and society of these regions. Since the Nouakchott Appeal in October 2013 aimed at supporting pastoralism, notable progress has been made. This includes improvements in animal health, sustainable management of natural resources, and development within livestock value chains.
In her address at the forum, Commissioner Touré-Litse underscored ECOWAS’s commitment to tackling challenges faced by the pastoral sector. For over twenty-five years, ECOWAS has focused on three main areas:
1. Harmonizing and implementing regulations governing the sector.
2. Supporting financial resource mobilization for structural projects.
3. Facilitating dialogue through cross-border cooperation and multi-sectoral consultations.
The Commissioner reiterated ECOWAS’s dedication to collaborating with CILSS, UEMOA, Member States, technical and financial partners, as well as the private sector to implement recommendations from this high-level forum.
She concluded by affirming that “ECOWAS will play its part” while urging all stakeholders to contribute towards ensuring sustainable development of livestock farming and enhancing resilience of pastoral systems in West Africa and the Sahel.
