Fire management for healthy rangelands in sub-Saharan Africa:  A review

Mounir Louhaichi, Birikaa Olesikilal, Sawsan Hassan. (21/10/2023). Fire management for healthy rangelands in sub-Saharan Africa: A review. South Africa: the Grassland Society of Southern Africa.

Abstract

Prescribed burning is gaining attention as a vital tool for managing rangeland ecosystems in Sub-Saharan Africa, offering benefits for ecological restoration, biodiversity conservation, and overall land management. While fire is a natural and essential process that many ecosystems depend on, suppressing it can lead to the elimination of species and disrupt the ecological balance. Different ecosystems require varied approaches to fire management, with fire-sensitive ones needing protection and fire-dependent ones necessitating the right type and frequency of fire. Invasive plants add complexity to fire management, requiring adjustments to the fire regime. The presentation emphasizes the categorization of invasive alien plants and the importance of cooperation among stakeholders for effective legislation and policy implementation. It underscores the interdisciplinary approach needed for environmental policy formulation, involving natural science, technology, law, and socio-economic aspects. Ultimately, the presentation aims to improve human behavior for the betterment of grassland ecosystems and food security.