The international workshop was co-organized by the German Environment Agency (UBA), the Konrad-Adenauer Stiftung – Climate Policy and Energy Security Program for Sub-Saharan Africa (CLESAP), Markerere University and Kampala International University. The workshop brought together experts from all over the world and many African countries. It was officially opened by the Chargé d’Affaires a.i., German Embassy in Kampala, Ms. Petra Kochendörfer.

The protection and sustainable management of soils is a precondition for sustainable development and more so for the survival of mankind. Degraded soils, especially in Africa, result in hunger, famine, migration and under certain circumstances, even war. Although the effects of soil degradation are global, the appropriate management of soils must be ensured nationally and locally, hence the presence of experts from other continents, in order to share their experiences with their African counterparts. The most pressing challenges discussed were interdisciplinary in nature, including scientific, social, cultural, political, fiscal and legal challenges.

In depth discussions and world cafes especially but not exclusively centred on the African challenges and possible solutions thereto. The experts from Africa and international experts, also from relevant international organisations (UNCCD, ASP, IUCN, FAO among others) engaged in a very constructive exchange, which is envisaged to lead to concrete political outcomes.

During the workshop, the International Yearbook of Soil Law and Policy 2016 was launched by the Ugandan Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industries and Fisheries, Hon. Vincent Frerrio Bamulangaki Ssempijja and Hon. Jacqueline Amongin, MP of Uganda alongside with the Book Editors present during the workshop.