The Sahel is a belt of dry land countries, stretching between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, just south of the Sahara Desert. It is one of the poorest regions of the continent but also one of the most important — the leading edge of the critical Green Wall preventing encroaching desertification and promoting climate resilience in Africa.
The population of the Sahel will reach 500 million people by 2050. That means half a billion Africans who need greater livelihood opportunities in a region where more than 90% of people rely on farming. Investing in environmental restoration and agricultural innovation is essential for the security and well-being communities in the Sahel, and for Africa.
Founded in Dakar, Senegal more than 40 years ago, SOS SAHEL believes in the power of locally led solutions for development. African farmers have generations of agricultural expertise at the nexus of food security, climate and livelihoods that is ready to be tapped in pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals and African Union Agenda.
Rather than relying on imported Western knowledge, SOS SAHEL builds a bridge between local, national, regional and international partners and resources — in particular ensuring that marginalized voices, like women and youth, are given a seat at the table to determine Africa’s future. This drives innovative partnerships and knowledge exchange to disrupt traditional models of development as we pursue greater opportunity, security and prosperity for the Sahel.
SOS SAHEL programs are led by a network of more than 1,000 local actors, committed to a greener, climate-conscious future for the Sahel.
Inspirational local partnerships and innovation unite a focus on food security, livelihoods and climate change to move us closer to the Sustainable Development Goals and African Union Agenda 2063.
SOS SAHEL launched the annual Africa Days in Dakar as a one-of-a-kind gathering between local communities, experts, and global investors in sustainable development.
By investing in African voices and solutions, together we can overcome drought, desertification, hunger and insecurity.
SOS SAHEL is an African-born grassroots organization with over 40 years of experience. Food security and nutrition of rural communities in Sub-Saharan Africa lie at the heart of our actions.