The Government of Kenya is gearing up to host the global observance of Desertification and Drought Day on June 17, 2026. The theme for this event will be “Rangelands: Recognize. Respect. Restore.” This gathering is set to emphasize the crucial role that rangelands play in our climate resilience and food security, while also honoring the cultures of pastoralist and Indigenous communities.
Interestingly, rangelands make up more than half of the Earth’s land surface. They are home to about two billion people, including over 500 million pastoralists who have managed these vital areas for generations. These landscapes are more than just land; they are rich ecosystems that support biodiversity and contribute significantly to our environment.
Kenya’s Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa, invited the international community to be part of this significant event. She expressed the hope that participants would contribute to discussions on drought resilience and land restoration. This observance coincides with the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, making it an even more critical moment for awareness and action.
Yasmine Fouad, the Executive Secretary of UNCCD, highlighted the urgency of the situation. She noted that up to half of the world’s rangelands are currently degraded, facing pressures that pose risks to food security and water availability. This reflects a wider trend where vital ecosystems are undervalued. Research indicates that investments in rangeland restoration can offer substantial returns—up to $35 for every $1 spent—due to both ecological and social benefits.
The 2026 observance aims to address critical actions in three key areas:
Recognize the economic and ecological value of rangelands, including their role in carbon storage and biodiversity.
Respect the traditional knowledge of pastoralists and Indigenous communities, whose practices are fundamental for maintaining these ecosystems.
Restore rangelands by promoting sustainable management practices and community-led restoration initiatives.
This globally significant observance, which occurs annually, seeks to raise awareness about land degradation and drive efforts toward restoring and protecting healthy ecosystems. It’s worth noting that this will be the first time in nearly ten years that Africa has hosted this important event. Previous observances took place in various countries, underlining the global nature of this issue.
As we look toward 2026, the emphasis is on collective responsibility. We all have a role in recognizing the importance of rangelands not just for the people directly connected to them, but for our shared global environment.
For more insights on rangelands and their importance, you can explore the UNCCD’s resources here.
