World Social Forum 2026

As part of the 17th World Social Forum (WSF 2026), taking place from 4-8 August 2026 in Cotonou, Benin, our colleague Mohamadou Dieye from ISRA-BAME, National Focal Point for Land Matrix in Senegal and Regional Focal Point for Land Matrix in West Africa, will participate on 6 August from 11:00-13:00 in a panel discussion on land governance entitled "Workshop on Natural Resource Governance, Land Grabbing and Citizen Struggles in Senegal".

His presentation, “How can the Land Matrix support evidence-based policymaking? The challenges of large-scale land acquisitions (LSLAs) in West Africa, with a particular focus on Senegal”, will highlight the strategic role of the Land Matrix as a global land governance initiative that promotes transparency in LSLAs. It will demonstrate how reliable and publicly accessible land data can support policymakers, strengthen land governance, and contribute to evidence-based public policies.

The panel will also address the major challenges associated with LSLAs in West Africa, including their implications for food security, community land rights, sustainable natural resource management, and inclusive economic development.

Through this participation, the Land Matrix reaffirms its commitment to promoting transparency, improving access to reliable land data, and supporting responsible land governance for sustainable and inclusive development.

See more: https://fsm2026benin.org/