Africa’s Rangelands Are the Frontline of Resilience – COP17 Showed Why

Healthy rangelands are built through long-term commitment, local leadership and sustained investment. Credit: ShutterstockOpinion by Samson Kuraru (nairobi, kenya)Friday, September 04, 2026Inter Press Service NAIROBI, Kenya, September 4 (IPS) - Across the Kenya-Tanzania rangelands, communities have long understood a reality that the global community is increasingly recognising: healthy rangelands support livelihoods, wildlife, water resources and local economies. They are among Africa’s most important natural assets and a foundation for resilience in a changing climate. That lesson is especially relevant today. As East Africa prepares for the potential impacts of a strengthening El Niño, the focus should not be on rainfall totals alone. Forecasts point to an increased likelihood of wetter-than-normal conditions across much of the region, although the timing and distribution of rainfall may vary significantly.Increased rainfall can improve pasture and water availability, but it can also increase flood risks and disrupt livelihoods, infrastructure and ecosystems. These conditions underscore the importance of healthy rangelands, reliable water sources and strong community-led approach...