The Association of Cattle Breeders of the Bounkani Region (AEBRB) has initiated an effort to strengthen dialogue among stakeholders in the livestock industry and local communities to prevent conflicts related to transhumance. This initiative was launched at a workshop on informed debates, which opened on November 9, 2026, in Sandégué. The workshop aims to bring together stakeholders to discuss challenges faced in pastoral and commercial activities and find concerted solutions.
The workshop, which will run until November 13, 2026, focuses on the module dedicated to cattle trade in West Africa. It was opened by N'Gnui Aboidje Francis, Secretary General of the Prefecture, representing Prefect Gbey Gué Antoine. The coordinator of AEBRB, Soro Daouda, stated that the meeting seeks to examine difficulties encountered in pastoral and commercial activities and find solutions through dialogue.
Discussions at the workshop cover issues such as herd mobility, access to pastoral resources, cattle marketing channels, and relationships between transhumant breeders and host communities. The goal is to prevent misunderstandings and tensions by improving knowledge of rules governing pastoral activities and establishing mechanisms for peaceful dispute resolution.
N'Gnui Aboidje Francis, in his opening remarks, emphasized that cattle trade is a significant source of income for many families and contributes to food security and inter-community exchanges. However, he noted challenges related to transborder animal mobility, securing commercial channels, conflicts between actors, and security challenges in certain areas.
The Prefect's representative invited participants to prioritize constructive exchanges and concrete proposals. The prefectural administration reaffirmed its availability to support initiatives that strengthen community capacities and consolidate social cohesion. The workshop brings together administrative authorities, technical service officials, village chiefs, community representatives, and livestock industry actors.
The expected outcome of the workshop is to improve participants' knowledge of cattle trade in West Africa and promote peaceful transhumance in the department. This initiative aligns with efforts to foster collaboration and understanding among stakeholders, ultimately contributing to more harmonious coexistence between breeders, farmers, and local populations.
Key stakeholders, including authorities and community leaders, are engaged in the process, indicating a collaborative approach to addressing the challenges associated with transhumance. The AEBRB's initiative demonstrates a commitment to proactive conflict prevention and community engagement in the region.
Key points
- The AEBRB's initiative aims to promote community dialogue and prevent conflicts related to transhumance in Sandégué, Côte d'Ivoire.
