The UNCCD is an international agreement focused on sustainable land management in arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas. Since its establishment in 1994, it has played a significant role in promoting legal instruments for the protection of land, both at the national and international levels. It now has a mandate to help achieve a land degradation neutral world in accordance with Target 15.3 of the Sustainable Developments Goals. Consequently, it seems to be undergoing an evolutionary process to ensure fulfilment of that mandate. But is it too now narrow to offer the global protection that land and soils need in this the age of sustainable development, bearing in mind the status of the world’s bio-productive lands? With the planet’s population estimated to reach approximately 10 billion by 2050, will we have enough bio-productive land to produce the food, water, energy and other goods needed to guarantee the life of and on this planet? And what is the role of law and in particular international law and agreements such as the UNCCD in the further protection, preservation and enhancement of the bio-productive land of the planet? These are all fundamental issues that must be addressed now.

This book presents an important discussion on future options for sustainable soil management in Africa from various perspectives, including national soil protection regulations, the role of tenure rights, the work of relevant international institutions such as the UNCCD and FAO, and regional and international cooperation.

This first volume of the new subseries Regional Perspectives to the International Yearbook of Soil Law and Policy includes contributions by African and international experts alike. Given the range of key topics covered, the book offers an indispensable tool for all academics, legislators and policymakers working in this field.
The “International Yearbook of Soil Law and Policy – Regional Perspectives” series discusses central questions in law and politics that concern the protection and sustainable management of soil and land in different regions of the world.

Addresses key topics in sustainable soil management in Africa
Informs readers about the tenure rights systems in Africa and its relevance for soil protection
Offers an indispensable tool for all academics, legislators and policymakers working in this field
Combines theoretical insights and empirical findings