Living with drought has taught pastoralists lessons the world needs

The Maasai community in northeast Tanzania, led by Andrew Msami, has long relied on cattle for their identity and wealth. However, increasing drought is forcing them to sell their animals and adapt to goats, which are better suited to arid conditions but hold less cultural value. Msami emphasizes that this is an existential threat to their identity.

Pastoralists, who tend livestock across arid regions, are particularly vulnerable to climate change. Desertification is occurring 30 to 35 times faster than historically, threatening rangelands that cover half of the planet's landmass. At the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification in Mongolia, Msami and others are advocating for stronger protections of Indigenous pastoral traditions, increased funding, and recognition of their knowledge in adapting to a changing world.

This year's conference marks the first with a dedicated caucus for Indigenous peoples, a significant step forward. However, the caucus has faced resistance, with Ibrahim leading a protest to secure full participation and official functions. Despite global efforts to combat climate change and desertification, these issues have not received equal attention from developed nations.

The International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists has raised awareness, but concerns remain that this focus could further marginalize Indigenous pastoralists. Scientific evidence shows that pastoralism benefits biodiversity and climate resilience, yet some countries restrict herd sizes and movement, despite the need for greater legal protections and resources.

Bandiaky-Badji emphasizes that addressing land and mobility rights is essential for building resilience against desertification.