Desertification is the process by which fertile land becomes desert. It happens when soil loses its ability to support plants. Drought, overgrazing, deforestation, and poor irrigation all contribute. Climate change makes it worse. The land does not have to be near a desert. It can be dryland in any region.

The consequences are human as well as environmental. Farmers lose their livelihoods. Food supplies shrink. People migrate to cities or across borders. The United Nations estimates that desertification affects over 100 countries and threatens the livelihoods of more than a billion people. Africa's Sahel region is a hotspot.

Solutions exist. The Great Green Wall aims to restore 100 million hectares of degraded land across Africa by 2030. Terracing, drought-resistant crops, and managed grazing all help. Planting trees can stabilize soil and hold water. The work is slow and expensive. Success depends on local participation. When farmers see results, they maintain the practices.

Main causes

• Drought
• Overgrazing
• Deforestation
• Poor irrigation
• Climate change