Guide: Toward an agroecological transition in regions affected by desertification

Guide: Agroecological Transition in Areas Prone to Desertification:
Proposal for a Support Approach

Authors: Marion Finet and Adeline Derkimba (CARI)
Coordination of writing and editing: Adeline Derkimba (CARI)

This document provides a foundation of information to clarify key concepts and identify potential avenues for action to promote agroecological transition in regions. To this end, it draws on scientific and technical literature as well as the experiences of GTD partners, based on projects related to the topic. The resulting content stems from a reflection based on elements related to the various visions currently shared by GTD members. It is intended as a progress report on discussions regarding the integration of the concepts of territory and agroecology and is aimed at development actors already engaged in an agroecological approach who wish to commit to advancing the transition process further.

This guide is structured in two parts: how to understand and justify an agroecological approach at the territorial level in regions affected by desertification? And how to build and implement an integrated agroecological approach at this scale?

The Desertification Working Group (GTD) is a French platform of stakeholders working
to combat desertification. Its strength lies in the diversity of its members’ backgrounds—including NGOs, agricultural professionals, scientists, local governments, and private-sector actors—as well as in the close ties it has forged and maintains with French policymakers (MAEDI, MEDDE).

What they all have in common is that at least part of their work focuses on the development of arid zones, land restoration, and possible alternatives to address the degradation of natural and economic resources in these areas.

The GTD promotes capacity building among its members and serves as a collective force in advocacy efforts aimed at influencing policy decisions.

Difficulty level: Easy