NELGA West Africa Strengthens Regional Network Through Alumni Network

From May 13 to 15, 2025, Conakry, Guinea hosted sub-regional workshop on the sustainability of the Network of Excellence on Land Governance in Africa (NELGA) and the launch of its Alumni Network for Francophone West Africa. The event brought together university professors, rectors, students, magistrates, land reform experts, and focal points from eight countries in the region.

The gathering served as a space to reflect on the importance of land governance reforms, the role of academia, and the collective vision for NELGA’s future. Prof. Mohamed Moustapha Diop, NELGA’s focal point in Guinea, emphasized the need for inclusive dialogue and alignment with the African Union’s land policy frameworks. Prof. Ibrahima Diallo, Coordinator of NELGA West Africa, highlighted the network’s achievements in training, research, and policy support.

Mr. Aboubacar Camara, Secretary General of Guinea’s National Transitional Council (CNT), opened the workshop by reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting NELGA’s mission. He stressed the urgent need to address land insecurity, urban pressure, and land grabbing through coordinated reform efforts.

The workshop concluded with a strong call to connect academic research with policy demand, engage public and private actors, and include university leadership in continental-level decisions to ensure the network’s sustainability and relevance in shaping land governance in West Africa.