Strategic partnerships for land & pastoralism research

At ILC Africa, we are thrilled to announce two significant funding successes that will help us deepen our understanding of pastoralism and enhance land tenure dialogues across the region. These strategic initiatives position our network at the forefront of evidence-based advocacy for sustainable land governance, with a particular focus on pastoral systems.

Advancing Agroecological Research in Pastoralism

Thanks to a generous grant from the McKnight Foundation, we are embarking on a groundbreaking study focused on pastoralism as an agroecological practice. Led by RBM in partnership with RP3, this research will examine how pastoral communities integrate agroecological principles into their livelihoods and environmental practices. We are currently in the contracting phase, with implementation beginning soon. This study will generate vital insights to influence local and regional policies, shaping future agroecological practices in pastoral communities.

Driving Policy Reform Through the FAO-EC PLACE Programme

In another exciting development, ILC Africa has secured funding under the FAO-EC PLACE programme, supported by the European Commission. This four-year project (2024–2028) will assess the impact of land tenure policies on pastoralism and facilitate national and regional policy dialogues. With a focus on amplifying pastoralist voices in decision-making, the initiative aims to drive systemic reforms to strengthen land tenure systems, improve pastoralists’ rights, and enhance overall land governance.

These initiatives are a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of sustainable land governance in pastoral systems. As we embark on these projects, we invite our members and partners working on pastoralism and agroecology to share their experiences and insights. Your stories are invaluable and will enrich our work, helping to shape solutions that work for communities on the ground.

Together, we can create a more equitable and sustainable future for pastoralists across the region.