81319878-Accompagnement de l'opérationnalisation du système national de conseil agricole

The project PASSIP (Programme d'Appui au Sous-Secteur de l'Irrigation de Proximité) aims to enhance agricultural productivity as well as food and nutrition security in Mali by integrating innovative agroecological methods. The project focuses on improving small-scale irrigation systems, critical for a country that relies heavily on rain-fed agriculture and is vulnerable to climate change. By optimizing Mali's natural water resources, the project seeks to increase the resilience of rural communities, where agriculture is the primary livelihood. The project started in 2008 and is currently in its fifth phase, which will end at the end of 2026. The current phase has five outputs: 1) Output 1 is the adoption and implementation of the second Small-Scale Irrigation Promotion Programme (Programme d'Appui au Sous-Secteur de l'Irrigation de Proximité, PNIP 2.0). This updated version builds on lessons from PNIP 1.0 and integrates agroecological principles, gender-sensitive approaches, and nutrition. The aim is to improve water management and agricultural sustainability while promoting equity. PNIP 2.0 also includes mechanisms for national funding to support small-scale irrigation systems over the long term. 2) Output 2 supports the National Directorate of Agriculture (DNA) in implementing the National Agricultural Advisory Plan (Politique nationale de conseil Agricole, PNCA) and its National Agricultural Advisory System (Système national de conseil Agricole, SNCA). This framework brings together public and private sector actors to provide better agricultural advice to farmers. By strengthening advisory services, the project helps farmers adopt sustainable practices, improving productivity and resilience. 3) Output 3 promotes the sustainable use of irrigation systems by incorporating agroecological methods and addressing gender and nutrition concerns. Inclusive development plans are created in collaboration with farmers, local organizations, and authorities at selected sites. These plans ensure that the needs of vulnerable groups, such as women and youth, are considered. 4) Output 4 focuses on the development of a national agroecological transition strategy. This strategy will guide Mali's shift toward sustainable agricultural practices. 5) Output 5 strengthens capacities for income-generating environmental services in watersheds, particularly to protect small-scale irrigation infrastructure. By improving water and soil management practices, the project creates economic opportunities while enhancing environmental resilience. The activities focus on training individuals in sustainable environmental practices. Vulnerable groups, including women and youth, are given priority to ensure equitable benefits from the project's activities. In addition, given Mali's security challenges and the displacement of people, the project pays attention to IDPs, including them as an additional target group. In summary, PASSIP not only enhances agricultural productivity through better water management but also promotes sustainable and inclusive agricultural development. By focusing on agroecological practices, gender equity, and community involvement, the project strengthens the resilience of Mali's agricultural sector while addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. Through its integrated approach, the project contributes to environmental sustainability and social wellbeing, creating a pathway for sustainable rural development in Mali.