It analyzes the sudden emergence of artisanal gold panning in northern Niger in 2014, following the discovery of gold deposits in the Djado valley, in Tchibarakaten and in the Aïr massif. These discoveries led to a gold rush involving many Nigerians and foreigners seeking their fortune. The article describes the main gold panning sites and their actors, examines the interactions between the state, traders and gold miners, and assesses the political, religious, economic, social and environmental consequences of this activity in the Agadez region. The authors emphasize that, although gold panning has brought unexpected economic activity in a difficult economic situation, it also generates effects largely uncontrolled by the government, particularly in terms of regulation and environmental impact.

Governance, Environment, Natural ressources, Gold

The article, titled "NATO and Security Challenges in the Saharo-Sahelian Region in the Era of New Geopolitical Realities," analyzes the growing security challenges in the Saharo-Sahelian region, including the proliferation of terrorist groups, arms and drug trafficking, and political instability. Author Rabah Aynaou examines NATO's potential role in this area, considering new geopolitical dynamics. He suggests that NATO strengthen its cooperation with regional countries and organizations to enhance security and stability. The article also emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach, including economic and social development initiatives, to address the root causes of insecurity.

Governance, Security, Cooperation

This working paper examines the initiative of the three Sahel Alliance countries (Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger) to exit the CFA franc zone and establish a common currency. Although politically motivated, this initiative presents major economic risks, including inflation, currency devaluation, and a shortage of foreign exchange reserves. It highlights the potential short-term gains in competitiveness from devaluation, but acknowledges that structural transformations are unlikely. The article also examines the limited economic impact on regional partners such as ECOWAS and UEMOA, the potential disruption of migrant remittances, financial relations, and the minor economic effect on France.

Politics, Political party, Power, Economic Development, Natural ressources, Security, Justice, Development, Gold, Aid

This article addresses the challenges of Education in Emergency Situations (EiE) in the Sahel, a region plagued by security, climate, and economic crises. It offers five operational recommendations to enhance the educational response, including investments in coordination, data collection, decentralized education funding, and community mobilization. The study highlights the need for tailored educational alternatives and more effective financing mechanisms to address current shortcomings. The authors emphasize the importance of an inclusive and sustainable approach to ensure educational continuity in the face of chronic crises.

Economic Development, Natural ressources, Security, Education, Development, Family, Gold, Vulnerability, Threat, Crisis

This synthesis examines artisanal and semi-industrial gold mining in the former G5 Sahel countries (Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Chad) and Senegal, focusing on the Liptako-Gourma region. The study highlights the economic impact of this activity on local populations and the challenges related to its regulation, particularly the involvement of non-state armed groups. While artisanal gold mining creates employment opportunities and contributes to economic development, it also generates significant environmental and health issues, notably due to the use of toxic substances like mercury. The report calls for coordinated governance and strengthened regulation to transform this activity into a lever for sustainable development and regional stability.

State, Economic Development, Natural ressources, Security, Conflict, Development, Gold, Human security, Threat, Knowlege production

The summary examines the role of civil societies in the Sahel (Mauritania, Mali, Niger) and their impact on social change. It identifies eight ecosystems of organizations, including charitable associations, trade unions, cultural and religious groups, and feminist movements. The research highlights historical tensions, such as the colonial legacy and challenges of independence. The reasoned mapping of civil society dynamics reveals the complex interplay between the state, market, and domestic spheres. It emphasizes the importance of local actors in improving social services, promoting human rights, and empowering women, while analyzing the limits of international funding. Finally, the report proposes strategies to strengthen local capacities, enhance social proximity, and increase the visibility of aid initiatives.

State, Economic Development, Gender, Justice, Education, Development, Social, Aid, Researh, Knowlege production

This article analyzes the historical, political, and economic evolution of borders in the Saharo-Sahelian region, shaped by colonization, Tuareg rebellions, border disputes, and illegal flows. Borders, often arbitrary and poorly controlled, have become sites of rents for local and international actors. In pre-colonial times, this region was a transit area without barriers. Colonization imposed rigid borders, disrupting local dynamics. Today, trafficking (drugs, weapons, migrants) thrives, making borders porous and uncontrollable. Jihadist movements also redefine borders through their advances and retreats. The author emphasizes that Saharo-Sahelian borders remain economic, political, and geostrategic tools while symbolizing regional instability.

Politics, Political party, State, Boundary, Natural ressources, Jihad, Terrorism, Education, Gold, Illegal activity

This article examines the severe crises affecting the Central Sahel countries (Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger). It highlights the failures of public policies, increasing poverty, and rapid population growth. Ethnic conflicts, food insecurity, and climate change amplify tensions, with declining agricultural yields and escalating demographic pressures. The rise of jihadist movements and foreign interventions further undermine governance, leaving states increasingly fragile. Gravellini advocates for regional strategies to address these crises and promote universal values such as human rights. However, he predicts that a complete collapse of the Sahel is likely, threatening global stability.

Politics, Political party, Economic Development, Natural ressources, Education, Development, Gold, Soicial sciences, Researh, Knowlege production

This article examines the geopolitical dynamics of the Sahel and the Sahara, focusing on crises and resilience mechanisms. The author discusses conflicts such as the Libyan civil war, Mali’s fragmentation, and the rise of jihadists. The region is also shaped by the growth of trans-Saharan trafficking (drugs, weapons, migrants) and gold rushes. Sahelian states struggle to ensure stability due to weak institutions, exacerbated by international interventions. However, local populations demonstrate resilience by adapting to harsh environments, particularly through gold mining and informal trade. The article highlights the interplay between crises and adaptability, while questioning the effectiveness of international solutions.

Politics, Political party, Power, State, Natural ressources, Conflict, Jihad, Terrorism, Gold, Threat