The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) has received several requests to conduct research on the causes of conflict and its consequences on development in three African regions (Sahel, the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes). Preliminary findings indicate that violent conflicts involving pastoral communities have become widespread in many African countries, particularly in the Sahel and the Horn of Africa.

Though pastoral communities have a long history of conflict, the intensity of such conflicts is increasing as a result of competition over scarce resources stemming from the discovery of minerals, oil and gas and the land rush to secure food and commodities.

The issue has also been aggravated by climate change and environmental degradation. As such, the Capacity Development Division has made it a priority to examine the underlying causes and challenges of insecurity and illicit activities in pastoral communities and their negative consequences to economic growth and sustainable development.