SOS Sahel Community ForestryProject in Ed Debba

Harsh climate with annual rainfall of 20mm, and evapotranspiration rate of 6000 mm;
Sand encroachment from the north and north-east threatening and engulfing productive land;
Failure of existing methods of controlling encroachment;
Diminishing vegetation cover because of tree cutting and overgrazing which increases sand transport;
Increasing population pressure on land resources;
Shrinking economic base for the people.

The solution

Comprehensive protection measures to limit wind velocity-comprising the planting of mesquite outer shelterbelts and of eucalyptus windbreaks around crop areas and settlements;
Dune fixation and land rehabilitation;
Soil and water conservation;
Building on indigenous knowledge and experience to introduce more sustainable cost-effective protection measures.

The project achievements

Successful establishment of shelterbelts and windbreaks;
Continuing rehabilitation and protection of agricultural land - 25 per cent increases per year;
Increased yields because of improved micro-climate;
Increased fodder and fuelwood through coppicing mesquite and harvesting the pods;
Increased incomes for women from activities such as tailoring, tree nurseries and home gardens and making improved charcoal stoves;
Protection of housing, water points and infrastructure;
Security of settlement in the area for some 52,000 people;
Improved housing construction in protected areas;
High degree of community involvement and empowerment in activities through farmer’s and women’s committees.

The overall achievements

Defining an efficient, cost-effective, community-based system of encroachment control;
Demonstrating to communities that they can control and manage their environment;
Alleviating fears of having to abandon homes and relocate elsewhere;
Replication to other sites in the Nile basin.

This project was implemented by SOS Sahel and local communities with funds from IFAD.

Success Stories: Africa