In the last decade, Mali has made great advances as one of the countries in Africa where democracy has taken root, in an area that has suffered from cross-border conflicts. Because Mali does not have a coastline, the country is economically heavily dependent on a peaceful solution to the conflicts raging nearby, in order to guarantee stability in the the region.
A plan for the future
A democratic process began in 1991 when the military regime was overthrown. That process has continued, and today the country is one of the most stable in the region. However, political involvement in the country is low, and informal power structures continue to rule people’s daily lives, which are having an impact on the situation of women and children.
The country’s stable political situation has not been matched by an equally effective battle against the widespread poverty. A constantly increasing population and limited natural resources are hindering Mali’s progress.
Mali’s development strategy is a high political priority, and it is the country’s reference document for its fight against poverty. The strategy was produced with a broad consensus, and much of the civil society participated in the process. Through budgetary support, Sweden is contributing towards implementing the country’s strategy for combating poverty.
The aid to Mali remains very fragmented, which is draining the country’s already weak capacity and is reducing the effect of the development assistance. Sweden has been a role model among donor countries in the implementation of the Paris Declaration and has pushed donor co-ordination, adjustments to national systems and a transfer from project support to programme and budgetary support.
The Paris Declaration and aid effectiveness
Old problems demand new solutions
Mali’s challenges include a much too one-sided export industry – focused on cotton and gold – non-sustainable farming, and a very high population growth rate. Forests and arable land are being over-used in the short term with serious consequences for the environment. New solutions are required to make farming more affective and to improve the private sector.
The fight against poverty is guided by the country’s official anti-poverty strategy. Despite modest results, there is a positive trend. Increased investments in health and education have already led to important progress. As we extend our co-operation, we now want to contribute to long-term results for the poor people of Mali.
Sweden’s focus areas in Mali:
- Economic development to benefit those living in poverty
- Democratic governance and social development
- Sustainable development of land management.
Read more about Sida’s work in Mali
