Chad - Following the herds

The European Union’s NaturAfrica initiative supports biodiversity conservation and transboundary governance, particularly in the Aouk-Keïta landscape, by fostering cooperation between transhumant pastoralists and local communities. Located in southeastern Chad, the Aouk-Keïta landscape is a vital ecological corridor linking Zakouma and Siniaka-Minia National Parks with protected areas in northern Central African Republic. Despite its remarkable biodiversity—including iconic species such as giraffes and hippos—the area faces significant pressures from transhumance and natural-resource exploitation. Since 2020, conservation initiatives have sought to protect its ecosystems and maintain ecological connectivity, with the ultimate goal of establishing the Keïta and Mandjo community-protected areas.