
Imouhagh International has convened a major conference in Leeds addressing three pressing challenges facing the Sahel region: illegal migration, rising insecurity, and the impacts of climate change. As part of the initiative, the organisation’s founder and UK representative Akli Bessadah delivered a keynote lecture before members of a scientific society in Halifax–Leeds, United Kingdom, aiming to raise awareness of the factors driving migration and potential strategies to reduce it. During the lecture, the founder highlighted the urgent need to support local development in countries of origin as a sustainable way to curb illegal migration. He emphasised that improving economic opportunities and stability in Sahel communities can help reduce the pressure that pushes many young people to leave.
A significant portion of the talk also focused on the role of media in shaping perceptions of Europe and Western countries. According to the speaker, many migrants embark on dangerous journeys because they believe Europe represents a “paradise,” only to face a starkly different reality once they arrive. Effective media outreach, he argued, can help correct misconceptions and provide accurate information about life abroad, potentially preventing risky migration attempts.The event forms part of Imouhagh International’s broader efforts to address root causes of instability in the Sahel and promote informed decision-making among communities most affected by these challenges.


