Policy development in poor and fragile states presents unique challenges and opportunities that require a nuanced understanding of the local context. Success in these environments hinges on several key factors that collectively foster sustainable development and stability. ALG has actively contributed to policy development across multiple sectors and countries, leveraging expertise to foster effective governance and sustainable practices. Their initiatives have facilitated the creation of frameworks that promote innovation, economic growth, and social equity, ensuring alignment with both local and global standards.

1. Inclusivity and Local Ownership: Effective policy development must prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that all stakeholders, including marginalized communities, are engaged in the process. Local ownership is crucial; policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of the population are more likely to gain support and achieve lasting impact. Engaging local leaders and institutions can enhance trust and legitimacy.

2. Contextual Understanding: A deep understanding of the socio-political landscape is essential. Policymakers must consider historical grievances, cultural dynamics, and existing power structures to craft relevant and effective strategies. This contextual awareness helps in identifying potential obstacles and leveraging local strengths.

3. Adaptive and Flexible Approaches: In fragile states, conditions can change rapidly due to conflict, economic shifts, or natural disasters. Successful policy development requires a flexible approach that can adapt to evolving circumstances. This may involve iterative processes and ongoing stakeholder engagement to refine policies as needed.

Case study: Development of two policies for the recruitment of primary school teachers for community teachers in Chad

4. Institutional Capacity Building: Strengthening local institutions is fundamental for the sustainability of policies. Investment in capacity building ensures that governmental and non-governmental bodies can effectively implement and monitor policies. This also includes fostering accountability mechanisms that enhance governance and reduce corruption.

5. International Support and Coordination: While local solutions are paramount, international support plays a critical role in providing resources, expertise, and stability. Coordination among international actors is necessary to avoid duplication of efforts and to create a cohesive strategy that aligns with local priorities.

We know from our experience that successful policy development  fragile states in Africa requires a holistic approach that emphasizes inclusivity, contextual understanding, adaptability, capacity building, and coordinated international support. By focusing on these factors, policymakers can create resilient frameworks that promote peace, stability, and sustainable development in some of the world’s most challenging environments.

ALG actively participated recently in a thought-provoking fishbowl session titled “Taking Stock of North-South Collaboration: Are We Doing Enough to ‘Localize’ Evaluation?” at the European Evaluation Society,  EES-2024 conference held in Rimini, Italy (23-27 septembre). The session was facilitated by four professionals (evaluators and commissioners) coming from Europe, Africa, and Asia, who brought forward critical perspectives on the localization of evaluation practices.

The session illuminated several major barriers hindering localized evaluation efforts. Firstly, there is a lack of a uniform understanding of what localization entails; many grapple with defining the roles of “local” versus “international” evaluators. This ambiguity can lead to misalignment in expectations and objectives. Secondly, limited networking and collaboration opportunities between North-South evaluators exacerbate the challenges, often resulting in isolated efforts that fail to leverage diverse expertise. Additionally, institutional and cultural challenges can impede meaningful collaboration, as can the complexities associated with partnerships, procurement processes, and payment structures.

Conversely, the session highlighted pivotal enablers for localized evaluation. Access to key individuals and logistical support is crucial for ensuring culturally relevant, accurate data collection and analysis. Furthermore, mechanisms that foster collaboration between North-South evaluators can enhance the quality of proposals and evaluation outputs, ultimately leading to richer learning experiences.

For ALG, these insights reinforce our commitment to overcoming barriers to localized evaluation and improving North-South, South-South, and triangular collaboration. To address these challenges collectively, we are collaborating for the development of a project focused on mapping existing resources, building capacity, and creating a comprehensive database through an online B2B networking platform. This initiative would enable individual consultants and consulting firms to collaborate effectively with evaluation commissioners, fostering stronger business relationships and promoting sustainable partnerships across various contexts.

Given our firm’s substantial presence in over 30 African countries and the completion of numerous evaluations, we are confident in our ability to assume a critical role in the implementation of this initiative.

TVET Strategy in Violent Extremism Context in the Sahel

The Sahel region, spanning across Africa from Senegal to Sudan, has been a hotbed of violent extremism for years. This has led to a significant disruption in the socio-economic fabric of the region, with education being one of the most affected sectors. In response, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has emerged as a strategic approach to counter violent extremism in the Sahel. This article explores the role and impact of TVET in this context.

Over the past five years, ALG has successfully completed numerous projects in the region in collaboration with esteemed international partners such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through its regional stabilization program, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) through its regional office in Dakar, Heifer International, the International Republican Institute, and the World Bank. This article leverages the valuable lessons learned from these interventions to inform its insights and recommendations.

Understanding the Sahel Context

The Sahel region, which stretches across the African continent from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Red Sea in the east, is marked by a unique and intricate tapestry of socio-economic, political, and environmental challenges. This arid and semi-arid zone, which includes countries such as Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad, and Mauritania, faces a myriad of issues that significantly impact the daily lives of its inhabitants.

One of the most pressing challenges in the Sahel is the pervasive poverty that affects millions of people. The socio-economic fabric of the region is frayed, with a significant portion of the population living below the poverty line. High levels of unemployment, particularly among the youth, exacerbate this situation, leaving many without viable means of support or opportunity for advancement. The lack of economic prospects has contributed to feelings of disenfranchisement and frustration, which can lead to social unrest and a susceptibility to extremist ideologies.

In addition to these economic challenges, the Sahel is grappling with political instability that undermines governance and the rule of law. Weak state institutions, coupled with corruption and a lack of accountability, have eroded public trust in government. This vacuum of authority often creates fertile ground for non-state actors, including violent extremist groups, to thrive. These groups exploit the existing grievances of the population, positioning themselves as alternatives to ineffective state structures, further complicating the political landscape.

Environmental changes, particularly the impacts of climate change, have also played a significant role in shaping the Sahel’s challenges. The region is experiencing increasingly severe droughts, desertification, and fluctuations in rainfall patterns, which threaten agricultural productivity and food security. As communities struggle to adapt to these changes, competition for scarce resources such as water and arable land intensifies, leading to conflicts that can spiral into violence. This environmental degradation not only affects livelihoods but also exacerbates existing tensions, making it more difficult to achieve sustainable peace.

The confluence of these factors has created a precarious situation in the Sahel, where violent extremism has surged in recent years. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), over 33,000 individuals have lost their lives due to violent extremist attacks in the Sahel since 2011. This staggering figure highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies that address not only the symptoms of violence but also the underlying socio-economic and political issues that fuel it.

Understanding the Sahel context requires a nuanced analysis of the interplay between poverty, unemployment, political instability, and environmental challenges. Addressing these interconnected issues is essential for fostering resilience in the region and mitigating the rise of violent extremism. As stakeholders work towards solutions, it is crucial to prioritize inclusive development, good governance, and climate adaptation strategies to build a more stable and prosperous future for the Sahelian people.

The Role of TVET in Countering Violent Extremism

In recent years, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has emerged as a vital educational strategy aimed at equipping individuals with the practical skills and knowledge essential for meaningful employment. This approach is especially relevant in the context of the Sahel region, where socio-economic challenges are prevalent, and the threat of violent extremism looms large. The significance of TVET in countering violent extremism can be understood through several interconnected dimensions:

1. Employment Opportunities:

One of the most critical ways in which TVET serves as a countermeasure to violent extremism is by providing youth with the necessary skills required for gainful employment. In many regions, particularly in the Sahel, high unemployment rates and limited job prospects create a fertile ground for extremist groups seeking to recruit disillusioned and marginalized young individuals. By offering targeted training programs that align with the demands of the local job market, TVET enables youth to secure stable employment, thereby reducing their vulnerability to radicalization. Access to job opportunities fosters a sense of purpose and belonging, which can deter individuals from considering extremist ideologies as viable alternatives.

2. Social Inclusion:

Another crucial aspect of TVET is its role in promoting social inclusion and reducing marginalization—two significant drivers of violent extremism. Many young individuals in the Sahel face social exclusion based on factors such as economic status, education level, or ethnic background. By providing equitable access to education and vocational training, TVET helps bridge social divides and fosters a sense of community and belonging among diverse groups. This inclusivity not only empowers individuals but also promotes social cohesion, reducing the likelihood of conflict and violence. When individuals feel valued and included in society, they are less likely to be swayed by extremist narratives that exploit feelings of alienation and disenfranchisement.

3. Building Resilience:

TVET also plays a pivotal role in building resilience among individuals and communities, equipping them with the skills necessary to adapt to changing socio-economic conditions. In an ever-evolving world marked by technological advancements and economic fluctuations, the ability to acquire new skills and adapt to market demands is paramount. TVET programs are designed to be flexible and responsive, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the job market. This adaptability not only enhances individual employability but also strengthens community resilience against the socio-economic factors that can lead to radicalization. When individuals possess the skills to thrive in their environments, they are less susceptible to the allure of extremist groups that promise quick solutions to their problems.

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) serves as a powerful tool in the fight against violent extremism, particularly in the Sahel region. By providing youth with essential employment opportunities, promoting social inclusion, and fostering resilience, TVET addresses some of the root causes that contribute to radicalization. As communities and nations continue to grapple with the challenges posed by violent extremism, investing in TVET initiatives should be viewed as a critical component of a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development. Through education and empowerment, we can help build a future where individuals are equipped to pursue constructive paths, ultimately leading to a more secure and harmonious society.

Case Study: TVET in Mali

A case in point is Mali, where TVET has been used as a strategy to counter violent extremism. The European Union and the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ) have been implementing a TVET program in Mali since 2015. The program focuses on sectors with high employment potential, such as agriculture, construction, and renewable energy.

According to GIZ, the program has trained over 20,000 young people, with 80% of the graduates finding employment or starting their own businesses. This has not only improved their socio-economic status but also reduced their vulnerability to recruitment by extremist groups.

Challenges and Recommendations for TVET Implementation in the Sahel

The implementation of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the Sahel region holds significant promise for fostering economic development and enhancing individual livelihoods. However, this potential is hindered by a myriad of challenges that must be addressed to ensure the effective deployment of such educational programs. Among the most pressing obstacles are inadequate funding, a lack of quality assurance mechanisms, and the disruption of educational activities caused by violent extremism.

Challenges:

1. Inadequate Funding: One of the foremost challenges facing TVET in the Sahel is the chronic underfunding of educational initiatives. Many governments in the region struggle with limited budgets and competing priorities, which results in insufficient resources allocated for vocational training programs. This financial shortfall affects the infrastructure, equipment, and instructional quality necessary for effective training.

2. Lack of Quality Assurance: Another significant hurdle is the absence of robust quality assurance mechanisms. Without these systems in place, there is a risk that TVET programs will not adequately align with the needs of the labor market. This misalignment can lead to a skills gap, where graduates are not equipped with the relevant competencies required by employers, ultimately limiting their employability.

3. Security Concerns: The Sahel region is also grappling with the destabilizing effects of violent extremism, which has led to the disruption of educational activities. Attacks on educational institutions and the intimidation of students and educators create an environment of fear, further exacerbating the challenges faced by TVET programs. This insecurity not only deters enrollment but also affects the retention of both students and qualified instructors.

Recommendations:

To effectively tackle these challenges and unlock the full potential of TVET in the Sahel, the following comprehensive recommendations are proposed:

1. Increased Funding:It is imperative for both national governments and international donors to significantly enhance their financial support for TVET programs within the Sahel. This can be achieved through the establishment of targeted funding initiatives, public-private partnerships, and international cooperation. By ensuring adequate financial resources, stakeholders can invest in necessary infrastructure, modern equipment, and skilled instructors to create high-quality vocational training programs.

2. Establishment of Quality Assurance Mechanisms: There is an urgent need to develop and implement quality assurance frameworks that can evaluate and improve the effectiveness of TVET programs. These mechanisms should involve collaboration between educational institutions and industry stakeholders to ensure that training curricula are relevant and responsive to the evolving demands of the labor market. Regular assessments and feedback loops can help maintain high standards and continuously adapt to new challenges.

3. Implementation of Security Measures: To safeguard educational institutions from extremist threats, governments must prioritize the implementation of comprehensive security measures. This could include the establishment of protective barriers around schools, the deployment of security personnel, and the development of contingency plans to respond to potential attacks. Additionally, creating a safe and supportive learning environment will encourage student enrollment and participation, contributing to the overall success of TVET programs.

Conclusion

ALG supports governments, civil society organisations ant development agencies to implement their programs in the Sahel countries. This articles builds on our overall experience in the region. It shows that  TVET is a strategic approach to counter violent extremism in the Sahel. By providing youth with practical skills for employment, TVET reduces their vulnerability to recruitment by extremist groups. However, for TVET to be effective, there is a need for increased funding, quality assurance, and security measures. With these in place, TVET can play a significant role in promoting peace and stability in the Sahel.

For more information, contact our Team dedicated to the Sahel: [email protected] 

ALG provides high-level expertise for the design, updating or evaluation of development strategies and plans.

The sustainable and inclusive development of African countries is a complex challenge that requires strategic approaches and well-defined plans. The importance of strategies and plans in steering this development cannot be underestimated. Indeed, these tools are essential levers for mobilizing resources, guiding public policies and ensuring the coherence of actions carried out at all levels. More and more countries and sub-state entities on the continent are designing this type of document.

Long-term vision and coherence of actions

Development strategies provide a clear vision of the objectives to be achieved, thus making it possible to direct efforts towards a desired future. In Africa, where the challenges are numerous — poverty, inequalities, climate change — it is crucial to establish priorities that meet the specific needs of each country. Well-developed plans ensure that actions are coherent and aligned with common objectives, which is essential to avoid isolated and scattered initiatives that could undermine the effectiveness of interventions. The process of developing these plans must meet certain requirements so that the vision is acceptable and shared by the majority of those concerned.

Resource mobilization

A solid strategy also helps to better mobilize financial, human and material resources. In a context where funds available for development may be limited, it is imperative to identify sources of financing, whether international aid, private investment or domestic resources. Development plans help to clearly articulate financial needs and justify investments, demonstrating the potential impact of projects on the socio-economic development of countries. Whether it is a national plan, a regional plan or a local plan, each requires a resource mobilization strategy.

Institutional capacity building

Strategies and plans contribute to strengthening the capacities of public institutions and local actors. In countries with weak administrative structures, it is essential to build robust systems that can effectively manage development processes. Well-designed plans integrate training, resources and monitoring mechanisms that enable institutions to function optimally, thereby ensuring effective policy implementation.

Stakeholder Engagement

Implementing development strategies requires the involvement of various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, the private sector and local communities. Inclusive plans foster dialogue and collaboration among these different actors, creating an ecosystem conducive to development. In Africa, where cultural and socio-economic diversity is great, it is essential to ensure that the voices of all segments of the population are heard and taken into account in defining development priorities. ALG has worked over the past few years on the establishment of community development plans in half a dozen countries on the continent. The approach followed has enabled broad consultations; which have helped to align the development offer of central authorities with the demand for development of grassroots actors.

Monitoring and evaluation of results

Strategies and plans also make it possible to establish monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, which are essential for measuring the impact of the actions undertaken. In Africa, where data can sometimes be lacking, it is crucial to establish clear indicators to assess the progress made. This not only allows for accountability, but also for interventions to be adjusted according to the results observed, thus ensuring continuous improvement of development policies. This type of intervention requires expertise that ALG makes available to partners who call upon us.

In short, development strategies and plans are essential for steering progress in Africa. They provide a clear roadmap, facilitate resource mobilization, strengthen institutional capacities, involve stakeholders and allow for rigorous monitoring of results. By investing in well-designed strategies and adapting them to local realities, African countries cannot only overcome current challenges, but also build a prosperous and sustainable future for their people. Now is the time to act decisively

The Sahel region, particularly Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali, has been grappling with escalating security challenges. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the security situation in these countries between February and March 2024.

Overview of the Security Situation

The Sahel region has been a hotspot for conflict and insecurity, with Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali being the most affected. The security situation in these countries has been characterized by frequent terrorist attacks, inter-communal violence, and a growing humanitarian crisis.

Escalating Terrorist Attacks

Between February and March 2024, there has been a significant increase in terrorist attacks in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali. According to the United Nations, these attacks have resulted in the death of hundreds of civilians and security forces. The main perpetrators of these attacks are extremist groups such as the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) and Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM).

Inter-Communal Violence

Inter-communal violence has also been a major security concern in these countries. This violence often stems from disputes over resources such as land and water, which have been exacerbated by climate change and population growth. In Burkina Faso, for instance, clashes between farmers and herders resulted in dozens of deaths in March 2024.

Humanitarian Crisis

The security situation in the Sahel has led to a growing humanitarian crisis. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), over 2 million people have been displaced in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali as of March 2024. This displacement has further strained the already limited resources in these countries.

Response to the Security Situation

Various efforts have been made to address the security situation in the Sahel. These include military operations by national and international forces, peacebuilding initiatives, and humanitarian assistance.

Military Operations

Between February and March 2024, the national armies of Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali, supported by international forces such as the French Operation Barkhane and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), have conducted several operations against extremist groups. These operations have resulted in the neutralization of several high-profile terrorists.

Peacebuilding Initiatives

Peacebuilding initiatives have also been implemented to address the root causes of conflict and violence in the Sahel. These initiatives include dialogue and reconciliation processes, community-based conflict resolution mechanisms, and programs aimed at addressing socio-economic inequalities.

Humanitarian Assistance

Humanitarian organizations have been providing assistance to the affected populations in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali. This assistance includes food aid, healthcare services, and support for displaced persons.

Conclusion

The security situation in the Sahel, particularly in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali, remains precarious. While efforts have been made to address this situation, more needs to be done to ensure long-term stability and security in the region. This includes strengthening the capacity of national security forces, addressing the root causes of conflict, and providing adequate support to the affected populations.

• Mission Title: Development of the Liptako-Gourma Regional Stabilization, Recovery and Resilience Strategy
• Region/Country: Liptako-Gourma: Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger
• Client: UNDP/Liptako Gourma Authority
• Period: 2002-2003
• Status of Implementation: Completed

Mission Description:

In close collaboration with the  Liptako Gourma Authority and in consultation with Member States and all stakeholders, the firm’s mission is to:

• Develop the ALG regional stabilization strategy by prioritizing areas of intervention while taking into account the ALG intervention strategy;
  Conduct an in-depth situation analysis on stabilization issues in the Liptako-Gourma region (strategic stabilization priorities, stakeholder engagement, intervention logic, etc.);
• Review analyses of conflict causes and identify entry points for peace and stability; work in parallel with the firm that is carrying out the conflict analysis of the LG region;
  Identification/mapping of partners and their initiatives involved in the areas of implementation of the stabilization project;
• Drawing lessons from the SSR in the Lake Chad region
  Support the LGA in strategically prioritizing the roles and needs anticipated for the implementation of its Regional Stabilization Strategy;
• Make recommendations on the important role that the LGA should play in convening and coordinating all actors involved in stabilization as well as in other areas of intervention, at the local, national and regional levels, including security actors; review the assessment of the institutional capacities of the LGAs and integrate the necessary support to fill the gaps and needs identified and required to ensure the sustainable implementation of the strategy over time (immediate, short, medium and long term).
  Provide the LGA with the necessary tools through which it can ensure the convergence of all stabilization efforts
  Propose the implementation mechanisms of the Strategy;
• Make relevant recommendations for the governance structures of the stabilization mechanism, particularly at the regional and local levels, while taking advantage of the Liptako-Gourma Governors Forum to ensure close collaboration and effective exchange of information for enhanced coordination for peace and security.
• The strategy should be flexible to allow for an extension of the scope of political and cooperation partnerships to other regional organizations such as the G5S, ECOWAS, has the effect of intensifying collaboration with emerging security and development policy and coordination frameworks in the region (the Sahel Coalition, the WB, IFPA, etc.); and ensure that the critical role of the Sahel Coalition/P3S is taken into account for the coordination of key partners and donors
• As part of the strategy, propose effective frameworks for civil-military cooperation/coordination; The strategy should establish a mechanism for complementarity of actions, coordination and cooperation with other actors, regional and international security forces, and other donors and development partners;
• Make a proposal for a robust monitoring and evaluation mechanism;
• Formulate recommendations on robust mechanisms to be put in place for capacity building of national, regional and local authorities to respond to conflicts, promote social cohesion, reduce the growing security threat, intra and inter-community tensions for power and resources (search for land and water by pastoralists under old transhumance models due to climate change, modern land management practices, creation of local committees for the strengthening of existing legislation on natural resource management, border restrictions and traditional conflict resolution practices).

• Project: Short-term consultancy to conduct a scoping study and develop Strategic Plan (2022-2027) for Heifer’s Interventions in the Sahelian Africa Countries
• Client: HEIFER International
• Region: Sahel
• Period: October-December 2021

Scope of work:

The overall objective of this consultancy is to conduct a comprehensive scoping study of the Sahel and develop a five-year strategic and operational plan that will enable Heifer International to implement its interventions and mandate in the Sahel.
For the purpose of this study, the Sahelian belt covers, in whole or in part, the following countries: Mali, Burkina Faso, Northern Nigeria, Senegal, Mauritania, and Norther Cameroun. The outcomes and recommendations from this study should enable Heifer to decide on which of these countries to focus resources.
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
The scope of work for the Consultant will include but not limited to the following objectives, in coordination with Heifer Senegal and other Heifer Stakeholders:

• Undertake a situational analysis of relevant ongoing development programs and interventions to date in the region;
• Carry out an exhaustive stakeholders’ mapping and analysis in the Sahel, the axes of which are in line with Heifer’s missions. This mapping will include the activities of private sector, bilateral/multilateral agencies, key challenges that stakeholders face, as well as their lessons learned;
• Collect and analyze all the specific information on the Multiple uses of water, Livestock, Agriculture, Governance, etc. (production players, production systems and areas, actual supply or production, factors limiting the quality of production, associated costs, and added value, on all links in the chain: from production to end market for all value chains, etc.) in the Sahel;
• Through a consultative process and application of appropriate tools of analysis, identify focus areas, the thrust areas of interventions, long term goals, strategic objectives, key result areas for Heifer International. The thrust areas will focus on key value chain opportunities in the Sahel: collection and analysis of relevant market information, exploration of potential market channels which, if fully exploited, could contribute to the production and market efficiency, identification of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats at the level of these two value chains, in particular at the level of production and marketing systems (SWOT analysis) and proposal of improvement strategies taking into account the associated costs, added value and investment needs in key sectors of these value chains;
• Propose a strategy for achieving the strategic objectives and key results by highlighting: the strategic axes, the strategic lines of action and the implementation plan, the monitoring-evaluation framework;
•  Propose monitoring and evaluating strategies (including the theory of change, result framework, key performance indicators, etc) and mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of the strategic plan;
• Develop a Resources Framework for the plan period. This will include the Budget and potential sources of funding and a well-defined strategy for partnership and resource mobilization;
• Hold stakeholder meeting(s) and inception workshop(s) in the Sahel to validate the draft Strategic Plan; and
• Finalize Strategic plan and submit to Heifer International.