Pro-Poor Growth and the Role of Agriculture in Mali

In its Growth and Poverty Reduction Strategy paper (2007-2011), Mali has set itself ambitious targets for agricultural production. In its Law on Agricultural Orientation (LOA) is confirms the government’s intention to invest up to 20% of its budget in this sector. Agricultural production is mainly family-based and extensive, prone to a number of biotic and abiotic constraints, making agriculture a high risk and highly vulnerable sector. Support to agriculture has to become more effective and better adapted. It has to be provided by means of indirect incentives differentiated to the poor, in favour of producers and producer organisations, to the promotion of better market functioning, and to a better consideration and management of risks

This report presents the main findings from the POVNET Workshop, held in Mali on 18-19 March 2008, to discuss key issues for agriculture as an important sector for promoting pro-poor growth in Mali. It includes conclusions and findings for donors.