Agricultural Advisory Services in Mali

The PASSIP project (Programme d'Appui au Sous-Secteur de l'Irrigation de Proximité) aims to improve agricultural productivity and food security in Mali by using innovative agroecological methods. The project focuses on enhancing small-scale irrigation systems, which are vital for a country that depends on rain-fed agriculture and is susceptible to climate change. By optimizing Mali's water resources, the project aims to strengthen the resilience of rural communities that rely on agriculture for their livelihoods. Currently in its fifth phase, which will conclude at the end of 2026, the project has five key outputs: 1) Implementing the second Small-Scale Irrigation Promotion Programme (PNIP 2.0), which incorporates lessons from the first phase and emphasizes sustainable water management, gender equity, and nutrition. 2) Supporting the National Directorate of Agriculture in executing the National Agricultural Advisory Plan (PNCA) and its advisory system (SNCA) to enhance agricultural advice for farmers. 3) Promoting sustainable irrigation practices through agroecological methods while addressing gender and nutrition issues, ensuring that vulnerable groups like women and youth are included. 4) Developing a national strategy for agroecological transition to guide sustainable agricultural practices in Mali. 5) Strengthening capacities for income-generating environmental services in watersheds to protect irrigation infrastructure and improve water and soil management. The project prioritizes training for vulnerable groups and considers the needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs) due to security challenges in Mali. Overall, PASSIP enhances agricultural productivity and promotes sustainable, inclusive agricultural development, contributing to environmental sustainability and social wellbeing in rural Mali.