Fourteenth International Conference on Climate Change: Impacts & Responses

Abstract

In Burkina Faso, climate has been undergoing annual and interannual changes for three decades. There is a phenomenon of isohyets sliding from the North to the South (Sahelian zone towards the South-Sudanian zone) and phenomena that were once exceptional (sand winds, locust invasions, and floods). And it is especially in the Sahel region that the regressive evolution of the climate is remarkable. This pastoral region has experienced in recent years a process of land degradation, biological resources, water resources, and pastoral space. Also, the problem of water availability hampers irrigated crop activities, daily consumption, and livestock. These scourges increase food insecurity and poverty in the region. And to enjoy better living conditions, some Sahelian populations located in the border area have decided to migrate to the south of the region with their livestock. Only in host communities, they face demographic pressure and strong competition for access to renewable natural resources. And with the deterioration of security conditions of Malian conflict in northern, the prolonged stay of these migrants represents a risk for pastures and social cohesion. It is in this context that we deepen the reflection on the theme climate change and migrations in the Sahel region of Burkina Faso in order to propose solutions that will help people and participate in social cohesion.