Desertification of the Sahel

Between 1968 and 1972, the semi-arid grassland regions of western African called the Sahel experienced what many have classified as the worst drought in the area's history, leading to widespread desertification and environmental degradation. During this time, "grazing became impossible and the lack of water triggered a large-scale famine that led to the first mobilization of external aid and the creation of the International Fund for Agricultural Development by United Nations." Scientists believe that the drought was a consequence of climate change as well as human development and land degradation.