This agreement, supported by the World Bank, aims to sustainably strengthen Malian agriculture by improving soil health and facilitating access for small farmers to essential inputs and services, indicates OCP Africa in a press release received Thursday by the MAP.
This partnership covers several key initiatives aimed at strengthening agriculture and promoting soil health in Mali through the establishment by OCP Africa of experimental plots to test innovative solutions intended to restore soil fertility. In this context, digital mapping will be developed, allowing precise fertilization according to the principles of the 4Rs: the right time, the right source, the right ratio and the right place, the same source specifies.
It also provides for the establishment of new generation Agricultural Service Centers, whose mission will be to disseminate best agricultural practices through the establishment of a digital platform which will facilitate the connection of farmers to agricultural value chains, and a mobile laboratory school intended to offer soil analyzes and agronomic advice directly in the field.
This memorandum of understanding also aims to strengthen the agricultural entrepreneurship of young people and women by promoting agri-tech through training, incubation and acceleration programs for agritech start-ups, in partnership with the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, as well as the creation of an ecosystem of agricultural start-ups, supported by venture capital funds to encourage local innovation.
This new agreement is part of the framework of South-South cooperation, illustrating the vision of HM King Mohammed VI for strengthened cooperation between African countries and more specifically between Morocco and Mali. It also demonstrates the solid commitment of the World Bank alongside the OCP Group for agricultural development in Africa, the press release continued.
“This partnership represents a crucial step in our collective approach to revitalize the agricultural sector in Mali. Thanks to innovative technologies such as soil mapping and precision fertilization, we will contribute to sustainable and flourishing agricultural development for the country,” said underlined the Director General of OCP Africa, Mohamed Anouar Jamali, quoted in the press release.
With this new partnership, the OCP group, through OCP Africa, reaffirms its long-term commitment to contribute to the transformation of agriculture in Mali, with the ambition of making it a model of success on the continent.
OCP Africa has already demonstrated its commitment to Malian agriculture. In 2023/2024, the company supplied 15,000 tonnes of fertilizer, facilitating Malian farmers’ access to quality inputs. For 2024/2025, a supply of 21,000 tonnes is planned. In 2023, 44 experimental plots were established on rice and corn, with a target of 200 new plots in key areas such as the Office du Niger. A Geographic Information System (GIS) was also launched, aiming to label 20,000 plots, with an ambitious target of 100,000 by the end of the year. Since 2014, OCP has reached thousands of Malian farmers through training on sustainable agricultural practices, thus continuing a tradition of cooperation with Mali, recalls the press release.
How will the partnership with OCP Africa and the World Bank impact smallholder farmers in Mali?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Amina Diallo, Agricultural Development Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good morning, Dr. Diallo. Thank you for joining us today to discuss this significant agreement aimed at bolstering Malian agriculture.
Dr. Amina Diallo (AD): Good morning! I’m delighted to be here to share insights on this exciting development.
TNE: The partnership supported by the World Bank and led by OCP Africa focuses on sustainable agricultural practices. Can you explain why soil health is such a critical issue for Mali’s agriculture?
AD: Absolutely. Soil health is foundational to agricultural productivity. In Mali, many smallholder farmers are facing severe soil degradation due to overuse and poor agricultural practices. By restoring soil fertility, we can improve crop yields, enhance food security, and ultimately support rural livelihoods. This agreement recognizes that if the soil is healthy, the entire agricultural system thrives.
TNE: The memorandum mentions the establishment of experimental plots to test innovative solutions. What kind of innovations do you think will have the most impact?
AD: The introduction of the 4Rs principle—right time, right source, right ratio, and right place—will be crucial. Tailoring fertilization techniques not only optimizes inputs but also minimizes environmental impact. Additionally, digital mapping can lead to precise application strategies that maximize efficiency. Innovations in local seed varieties and water management practices will also be vital for resilience, especially in the face of climate change.
TNE: The initiative includes Agricultural Service Centers and a digital platform to connect farmers to value chains. How do you foresee this transforming the agricultural landscape in Mali?
AD: This approach can revolutionize how farmers access information and resources. The Agricultural Service Centers will act as hubs for knowledge sharing, ensuring that farmers are well informed about best practices, pest management, and market opportunities. The digital platform allows for real-time connections to buyers and suppliers, streamlining operations and reducing barriers for smallholders. It’s about building a more integrated agricultural ecosystem.
TNE: There is a strong emphasis on empowering youth and women through agri-tech training and incubation programs. Why is this focus particularly important?
AD: Youth and women are vital players in the agricultural sector. Empowering them not only fosters inclusivity but also encourages innovation. Women are often key in household food production and nutrition, so equipping them with skills in agri-tech can enhance productivity and economic independence. Similarly, young entrepreneurs bring fresh ideas that can transform the agricultural landscape. Investing in their potential creates a more resilient and sustainable agricultural system.
TNE: This agreement also highlights South-South cooperation. How significant is this for fostering regional collaboration in Africa?
AD: South-South cooperation is essential for sharing knowledge and resources among countries with similar challenges. This agreement between Morocco and Mali exemplifies how African nations can collaborate to tackle common issues like food security and agricultural development. By pooling expertise, technology, and investment, we can create a more robust agricultural sector that benefits everyone.
TNE: Dr. Diallo, what are the next steps you believe need to be taken to ensure the successful implementation of this agreement?
AD: The immediate focus should be on establishing clear timelines and metrics for success. Engaging local communities throughout the process is essential to ensure that the interventions meet their real needs. Continuous monitoring and evaluation will help adapt strategies as necessary. Furthermore, fostering partnerships with local NGOs and agricultural associations can enhance outreach and implementation effectiveness.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Diallo, for your insights on this transformative agreement for Malian agriculture. It’s clear that with the right strategies and support, there’s potential for real change.
AD: Thank you! It’s always exciting to discuss how we can work together to empower farming communities. Let’s hope for a successful rollout of these initiatives!