Mali is in the middle of capitalising its national climate change fund, a financial mechanism developed through the TNA. Funded by the Green Climate Fund, a team of national experts in the fields of climate change, agriculture and water resources have been brought in to set up funding mechanisms and a coordination framework to implement projects. They will review and design strategies and plans to develop a climate-resilient strategic programme and train local staff to continue their work.
Mali is a landlocked country in the heart of the Sahel, a region particularly threatened by drought and desertification; approximately 65% of Mali’s land area is either desert or semi-desert. Mali’s economy is dominated by the primary sector, which contributes 35% to GDP. Agriculture, water and health are all key sectors that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change. Accordingly, the target group for technology transfer in the TNA is the vulnerable rural population, who represent 70% of Mali’s total population.
Mali completed its TNA in 2012. The Technology Action Plans identify several projects and programmes aimed at introducing the prioritized technologies. Examples include the establishment of micro-hydroelectric stations along the Senegal and Niger rivers and of photovoltaic solar power plants, both technologies that will provide clean energy to the rural population, as well as the more urbanized southern areas of Mali.
Drought is a major risk factor for Mali’s agriculture. Field-contouring was identified as a suitable technological solution to this problem, as it helps prevent rainwater run-off and soil erosion. Based on a recommendation from the TNA, field-contouring technology has been introduced in Mali’s rural Koutiala. As an agriculture management technique, it has reduced water run-off from 20% to 50%, depending on soil type, and increased crop yields by approximately 30%. The TNA highlighted the lack of awareness as an essential barrier, which the Institute of Rural Economy is now working towards alleviating through staff training sessions and data collection on how the technology is fairing in Mali.
The NDC highlights the need to implement the Technology Action Plans.
Mali’s TNA contributes to the following Sustainable Development Goals:
Share this
Photo credit: Axel Fassioa, CIFOR / Flickr.
