An introduction to the geographical, historical and political/economic aspects of desert advance with special reference to the Sahel region of Africa. Among various efforts to deal with the problem, particular attention is given to the UNCOD Plan of Action to Combat Desertification of 1977 which has been partially (but not effectively) implemented. Diversion of international aid to irrelevant projects is discussed. Measures to control desertification, consisting of intensive crop production, range management and forestry (in the form of agroforestry and community forestry) are given nearly equal attention.