The United Nations is developing an Integrated Regional Strategy on the Sahel – one that will strengthen regional capacities to combat insecurity, prevent and respond to large-scale crises, and promote democratic governance and respect for human rights.
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told a High-level meeting Wednesday that the Sahel is at a critical juncture and political turmoil, extreme climatic conditions and fragile economies are combining to create a perfect storm of vulnerability.
He said four-point strategy will help the countries of the Sahel to stem the terrorist threat, fight organized crime and control the proliferation of weapons. This will include tackling money laundering and improving border management.
"Second, the strategy will promote inclusiveness, conciliation and mediation to decrease tensions within and between countries. ..Third, the strategy will seek to strengthen the short- and long-term ability of communities to cope with extreme climatic conditions and market shocks. This means building regional mechanisms for early warning, disaster risk reduction, livelihood support, and social protection." (Duration:36")
The strategy will place great emphasis on environmental management helping the countries of the Sahel to better regulate their extractive industries, improve water resource management, adapt to climate change and regulate land tenure and access.