Nouakchott, 8 November 2024 – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) proudly joins leaders from West Africa and the Sahel in supporting the new Nouakchott Declaration, aimed at advancing livestock development and securing pastoral systems across the region. This milestone Declaration, hosted by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, in collaboration with the Permanent Interstate Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS) and the World Bank, marks a decade since the initial 2013 Declaration with a reinforced commitment to fostering resilience, sustainable development, and stability for pastoral and agro-pastoral communities.

The high-level forum, convened in Nouakchott from 6 to 8 November 2024, united representatives from West African and Sahelian nations, pastoral and agro-pastoral organizations, research institutions, civil society, and development partners. Participants reflected on significant progress made over the last decade and outlined key priorities for a shared, secure future for pastoralism.

The Declaration’s reaffirmed objectives include:

• Strengthening pastoral livelihoods through enhanced veterinary services, access to water, and secure grazing areas.
• Facilitating peaceful transhumance and transboundary cooperation to foster regional integration.
• Building resilience against climate challenges through sustainable land use and ecological practices.

"IOM is honored to support the Nouakchott Declaration as it brings crucial focus to issues that lie at the intersection of migration, security, and sustainable development," stated Anna Eva Radicetti, IOM Deputy Regional Director for West and Central Africa. "With COP29 just days away, the Declaration highlights the importance of coordinated efforts to safeguard pastoral livelihoods, strengthen cross-border and regional cooperation, and empower communities, aligning with global priorities in addressing climate change."

As one of the Declaration’s strategic partners, IOM will contribute its expertise in managing migration flows, bolstering regional cooperation, and promoting peaceful solutions to pastoral challenges. Through continued partnership, IOM aims to help transform these commitments into lasting, tangible improvements for the pastoral communities of West Africa and the Sahel.

***

For more information, please contact:

Sokhna Sy, IOM Regional Office for West and Central Africa, ssy@iom.int

Joëlle Furrer, IOM Regional Office for West and Central Africa, jfurrer@iom.int