A landmark symposium for biodiversity and ecosystem conservation
From 8 to 13 November 2026, the historic city of Saint-Louis, Senegal, will host the first-ever International Symposium on Biodiversity and Ecosystems (SIBEX). This event will bring together scientists, policymakers, NGOs, and local communities to tackle the pressing challenges and innovative solutions for preserving and restoring critical ecosystems. With a special focus on the Senegal River Delta and Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, SIBEX aims to become a leading platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration across West Africa and beyond.
A focus on migratory bird conservation
One of the central themes of SIBEX is the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats. The symposium addresses the urgent need to protect wetlands and other key sites that serve as vital stopover and wintering grounds for numerous bird species. These habitats are under increasing pressure from climate change, land use changes, and water management conflicts, making international dialogue and cooperation more important than ever.
LIFE IP GrassBirdHabitats and LIFE Godwit Flyway supporting conservation across borders
The LIFE IP GrassBirdHabitats and LIFE Godwit Flyway support SIBEX, particularly Axis 3, which focuses on conservation engineering and habitat restoration. Our involvement reflects our commitment to safeguarding the habitats of threatened grassland birds, such as the Black-tailed Godwit, not only in their European breeding areas but also along their entire migratory route. The Senegal River Delta is a crucial wintering site for these species, and effective conservation here directly supports our goals in Northwest Germany and the Netherlands.
During the SIBEX, the LIFE IP GrassBirdHabitats project will showcase multiple initiatives, including efforts to safeguard the Djoudj National Park and restore the Mbawaar wetland in the Senegal River delta . Additionally, our teams will lead a workshop titled “Data” on waders along the southern dimension of the East Atlantic flyway system. By supporting SIBEX, we aim to strengthen the links between science, policy, and practical conservation on an international scale. The exchange of experiences and innovative solutions at the symposium will help develop adaptive management strategies that benefit both, local communities and migratory bird populations. We believe that only through cross-border collaboration we can ensure the long-term survival of species like the Black-tailed Godwit and maintain the ecological integrity of their habitats.
