Should pastoralism continue as a way of life?

Pastoralism is unpopular with most African governments. It is widely regarded as environmentally destructive and even economically irrational. Yet most of the popular allegations against pastoralism are unfounded. In most of the areas in which it is practiced it is the only way to survive in marginal, semi-arid environments, and the majority of pastoralists have a deep respect and knowledge of their environment. The tragedy of pastoralism today derives from a misunderstanding of the position and motivation of pastoralists who, often in extreme circumstances, are trying to come to terms with a rapidly changing political, economic and natural environment. The only sensible pastoral development strategy in this context is to provide a facilitating environment for pastoralists, where they can be supported in the particular range of activities which they know best. Any more traditional, prescriptive 'range management' approach is likely to fail.