Drylands represent 43% of African landmass and are home for more than 268 million people. Drylands are not sterile lands, they have potential. Dryland's people are innovative in the use of their natural resources. They are enterprising and reactive to market opportunities. Policymakers and scientists need to work closely with drylands people and build on their successes to maximize opportunities and safeguard the environment to ensure the future of the millions of people living in these areas.