A delegation of Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) went to Niger and conducted scientific investigation for desertification control during the period of June 4-14, 2012.

During the period, accompanied by experts from the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources of Niger, the delegation investigated the Project of Rainwater Harvesting System for Afforestation in Konni, Zinder Endangered Species Conservation Park, Gouré Sand Control Project, Maradi Demonstration Garden of Maize, Ninamy Recovery Area of Sand-Fixation and Afforestation and Niger River.

At the same time, Prof. XU Xinwen from XIEG introduced the successful experiences and achievements of desertification control in Xinjiang, China to the minister of Ministry of Environment and Water Resources of Niger and other related researchers. Among the successful experiences and achievements, the shelterbelts along the Tarim Desert Highway attracted their attentions. Subsequently, the researchers of both sides made a discussion on the research program and implementation location of international cooperation between China and Africa in desertification control. 

Niger is a landlocked country in Western Africa and it is the world's least developed countries. Niger covers a land area of almost 1,270,000 km², the largest nation in West Africa, with over 60% of its land area covered by the Sahara Desert. Therefore, Niger becomes the emphasis in desertification control cooperation researches.

Tropical savanna in Niger

 

Dr. LI Shengyu