Resource information
Draws from a research report which responded to heightened concerns over rising conflict and antagonism between predominantly herding groups and more settled farming peoples across a wide band of semi-arid Africa. Many increasingly blame ‘farmer–herder conflict’;but neither recent history nor surveys of armed violence support this simplification. Pastoralism is seen as disruptive and backward;fighting an unwinnable battle for scarce resources. Yet in truth it is an under-valued adaptation to variability that can make livelihoods and landscapes more climate-resilient. Understanding the roots;dynamics and meaning of conflict;providing space for listening and negotiating;and supporting livelihood and economic opportunities are key to mapping out pathways to peace for the whole region.
