The Timbuktu Center for Strategic Studies on the Sahel Think Tank

Uniting Cultural Heritage and Innovation to Work for a Peaceful and Productive Sahel

Established by local researchers and academics, our independent think tank works closely with local communities and leaders to create evidence-based and impactful projects.

Our unique focus on bridging cultural heritage with innovation provides the platform for international organisations to directly support initiatives that advance Africa’s sustainable development, peace, and stability.

Our Mission

To build grassroots alliances across the rural Sahel to work for sustainable peace.
To bring together community leaders to identify common values and goals to fight violent extremism.
To Foster bold and innovative thinking on Africa’s development challenges.

To connect to communities with resources to promote cultural awareness in the spirit of tolerance and respect.
To integrate gender equality across all initiatives
To address climate change and social resilience in the Sahel region

Our Work

We apply an evidence-based approach to address the region’s most pressing security and development challenges. Through rigorous research, data collection, and practical program implementation,we ensure that our efforts make a tangible impact on peacebuilding and development in the Sahel region. Our activities include:

Conducting comprehensive research and data analysis on critical issues such as terrorism, violent extremism, security, governance, and social cohesion.

Implementing impactful programs and projects based on research findings, aimed at preventing conflict, promoting peace, and advancing sustainable development across the Sahel.

Organizing workshops, conferences, and seminars to share knowledge, foster dialogue, and develop actionable solutions to challenges in areas like counterterrorism, disinformation, climate change, and migration.

Collaborating with local communities, governments, and international partners to design and implement initiatives that build resilience and foster long-term peace and security.

Latest Projects & Research

Project: Advancing Mediation and Traditional Dispute Resolution in Timbuktu

Conflict

April 22, 2025

Founder & Supporter: Weinstein International Foundation Implemented by: Timbuktu Center for Strategic Studies on the Sahel Overview This initiative empowers youth in northern Mali, particularly in the conflict-affected region of Timbuktu, by combining traditional conflict resolution methods with modern Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) approaches. The project addresses the urgent need for local peacebuilding, youth leadership, and social […]

Project : Promoting Civic Engagement to Advance Democracy in Mali

Democracy, the Rule of Low and Developement

April 22, 2025

A project supported by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) Why This Matters Mali is at a pivotal moment in its democratic journey. Decades of political instability, social unrest, and governance challenges have weakened public trust and citizen participation. Yet, Mali’s rich cultural traditions rooted in dialogue, accountability, and communal values offer powerful foundations for […]

Film for peace Symposium Project

Peace Making

April 30, 2024

Project Description : This innovative project, funded by the US State Department through the US Embassy in Mali, offers a unique and enriching experience. Organized by the Timbuktu Center for Strategic Studies in the Sahel, in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Mali and Black Public Media, the Symposium and Workshop aim to harness the […]

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Our Supporting Partners

Our organisation seeks to expand collaboration with like-minded organisations to achieve our our vision to build a lasting peace and security for all by 2030.