International Conference - "The ecosystems, key tool for the development of the African continent" - June 8, 9 & 10, Tunis

The Sahara and Sahel Observatory (OSS) is taking the celebration of its 30 years of existence and the World Environment Day to organize an international conference on "The ecosystems, key tool for the development of the African continent" on June 8, 9 and 10, in Tunis. 

A high-level discussion panel will start the works of the conference along with the release of the OSS documentary book produced in 2022. This book is entitled "African ecosystems between degradation and restoration », and describes the different ecosystems in Africa, draws up the state of their degradation and takes the results of research, successful experiences and lessons learned to put forward avenues for their preservation and restoration. The program of the conference will be marked by 4 successive thematic panels on issues related to ecosystem services, climate, land and water. 

The “Valuing ecosystem services” first panel will focus on the importance of a better understanding of the usefulness of ecosystems that provide people with benefits of all kinds for they feed, hydrate, heal and protect. It is really important to value the many services they offer, to speak up and alert all stakeholders on the need of their preservation. A second panel on “Adaptation to climate change to better manage migration”, will emphasize the necessity of thinking ahead to reduce the harmful effects of climate change and stabilize populations, in particular by preserving the ecosystems in which they live. The third panel will discuss "Land restoration", and will open debate on the major opportunities and challenges related to this issue. The topic of the fourth and last panel is "Good governance of water resources to contend with water stress". Today, a large portion of the African continent being particularly affected by water scarcity is a reality. Water stress has increased significantly due to the impacts of climate change. The panel will explore alternatives for a sustainable drinking water supply, including a reasoned governance of water resources, information and awareness-raising, but also the use of unconventional water, such as the reuse of treated wastewater or seawater desalination.

Besides the works of the conference, the participants will take a moment to attend an art exhibition. Indeed, they will have the opportunity to watch the artistic achievements of the OSS Executive Secretariat experts and that relate to the topics covered.  

This celebration is the Organization contribution to the international community commitment to the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. 

According to the United Nations, "Healthy ecosystems are the only way for us to improve the living conditions of the populations, combat climate change and halt biodiversity loss". 

Land is a key element of this aspiration, indeed, it is a primary and a fundamental contributor for human life.