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This paper seeks to analyse some of the problems persisting in the dryland regions with particular reference to Sub-Saharan Africa, and describe the processes that aim to tackle them. Contrary to popular belief, drylands are not parched wastelands, but contain a high degree of natural and social diversity. The dryland soils are believed to be degrading, and continuous exposures to frequent droughts coupled with political and economic marginalisation are putting poor people living in the drylands at risk. To be able to appreciate the complexities of the current problems, it is necessary to review the historical debates and discourses, surrounding the ideas of desertification and degradation. Furthermore, in order to enable critical appraisal of these narratives and the assumptions on which they rest, it is essential to have a sound understanding of key ecological concepts. More nuanced explanations are offered regarding the relationships between population, poverty, and environmental degradation. Different approaches towards tackling the problems in the drylands are discussed, with specific attention to the case of pastoralism. The paper then turns to describing and discussing the efforts of the Convention to Combat Desertification to implement policies and practices conducive to preventing degradation in the drylands. The authors emphasise that the focus should be shifted from an emphasis on the environment to an emphasis on the people living in that environment. The question of what Norway can contribute with in this regard is then raised, before drawing together the main points in conclusion.