Sustainable development of irrigated agriculture and strengthening the climate resilience

Mali is a Sahelian country landlocked in the heart of West Africa and dependent on climatic hazards and more specifically water resources, which have negatively modified the socio-economic conditions of rural populations through the reduction in agricultural production while affecting the health and household income

The fluvial ecosystem of the Inner Niger Delta basin lives to the rhythm of the annual floods of the Niger River, a traditionally humid area which contributes positively to the development of agricultural production activities, fishing, livestock breeding, forestry, etc. for the benefit of local communities But for nearly 50 years this ecosystem has fulfilled less and less of its functions for local populations due to the negative effects of climate change, marked by a chronic deficit in the hydraulicity of the river course with the resulting decline of irrigated agricultural production, household food insecurity and the impoverishment of local populations and the frequency of diseases and malnutrition

The main obstacles to the development of irrigated agriculture and the management of forest resources in the floodplains of the Niger River are: (i) Lack of water for the development of irrigated agriculture has a negative impact on the availability of usable water for the development of irrigated agriculture, the reduction in plant cover, (ii) Decline in soil fertility marked by degradation of soils and vegetation; (iii) Lack of technical and technological capacities : Although populations are well aware of the harmful effects of climate change, they do not have the financial and technical means to develop lasting resilience to the harmful effects of climate change. The adaptation strategies developed so far by populations have shown their limits in reducing their vulnerability; and the technologies used for raising water are fuel-based pumping which are sources of greenhouse gas emissions and are not always within the reach of populations for large-scale irrigation. The main characteristic of irrigated agriculture is in addition to the lack of water, the non-use of research results, improved seeds with high yields, and organic and mineral fertilizer in crops for better soil management. This is and remains a challenge to ensure sustainable development of irrigated agriculture and improvement of the living conditions of vulnerable households.

Relevance and solution Faced with this situation, it is necessary to develop: (i) a new paradigm for agricultural and forestry production in the conditions of climate change which will be based on the promotion of modern irrigation techniques focused on water management. water from solar energy with a view to improving their living conditions, ( ii) and approach global in order to overcome the problems recurring to which are confronted the communities rural poor in terms of resilience to change climate and provide sustainable solutions to the fight against insecurity eating combining various sustainable methods to address the specific climate change challenges of vulnerable farming communities

The solution to overcome the challenge specific  linked to change climatic  door on actions aimed at developing a approach global in order to overcome the problems recurring to which are confronted the communities rural poor  in ecosystems _  rivers of the Niger River in terms of resilience to change climate change and provide sustainable solutions to the fight against insecurity eating in a carbon -free world  .IL is designed as an innovative action, in its approach and the choice of techniques and technologies to be applied to facilitate the adaptation of sustainable development actions in the face of climate change. The project innovates in the technological choice, and the approach in the management and sustainable use of natural resources (water, land, vegetation) by differentiating itself from other traditional techniques and approaches in irrigation and land management and natural resources in the region Land irrigation will be based on fairly innovative solar energy-based water pumping and the integrated management approach of land water resources and forest resources. The nature of adaptation and mitigation means that the project presents significant potential for duplication and more particularly in the area which has more than 1,500,000 ha of irrigable land from the Niger River and contributed significantly to the increase in sustainable agricultural production and improvement of the living conditions of households of more than 5 million people.

The direct beneficiaries are made up of traditional operators of the ecosystems of the Niger River basin including farmers, fishermen, traders and operators of forest resources. They are estimated at 15,200 people distributed among 100 agricultural operations and grouped into socio-professional organizations. It constitutes a community of farmers and fishermen heavily affected by climate change The growth rate within the regional population is 3.1% per year with a predominantly young population of 45%. This youth is faced with unemployment and poverty, the incidence of which is estimated at 69%. The indirect beneficiaries are the populations of 5 villages estimated at 15,780 inhabitants, made up of 45% young people (men and women) aged 16 to 45 who represent the active segment of the population and at the same time the most vulnerable. The average income of the national poverty line is estimated at 300 USD per year / person The majority of the population of the region live below the poverty line The potential beneficiaries could reach more than 5 million people

The target population is made up of small farmers, fishermen beekeepers and horticulturists, many of whom are marginalized and underserved due to climate change. These communities are heavily dependent on rainfall and the annual flooding of the Niger River, and are increasingly vulnerable to climate variability and change.

The solution aims to impact the lives of the entire target beneficiary community through:

(i) Improving household food security , through the diversification of livelihoods and sources of food and income through beekeeping, irrigated agriculture and horticulture, in order to ensure food security and nutrition of vulnerable communities. This will reduce their dependence on rain-fed agriculture and the flooding of the Niger River and mitigate climate risk

(ii) Economic empowerment of women and youth through capacity building sessions and links with consumer markets to enable smallholders and other beneficiaries/entrepreneurs to have the means to generate income through to sustainable agricultural activities. This will create economic opportunities and reduce poverty levels within the community.

(iii) The environmental sustainability of the solution which will be based on the promotion of techniques and technologies and sustainable practices for the management of land, water, and forest resources and the restoration of river ecosystems, thus contributing to the conservation and resilience of the environment. By restoring degraded landscapes and improving biodiversity, to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect natural resources for future generations.

( iv) Community resilience based on the climate resilience plan focused on capacity building and promoting community-led initiatives to reduce climate-related shocks and disasters. The Community Climate Resilience Plan will equip communities with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to changing environmental conditions and mitigate risks associated with extreme weather events.

The solution addresses their immediate needs which constitute a major climate challenge and promote long-term community climate resilience, creating lasting positive impacts on their lives and well-being.

The challenges faced by beneficiary communities, those most affected by climate change, form the basis of our approach to meeting their needs. Our organization has been working for more than 15 years in the area with local communities in several areas of local development. We have good knowledge of the environment and experience with communities

The activities will be carried out by the NGO ADAM in consortium with a consulting engineer office through a team made up of staff with more than 15 years of practical experience (i) a project manager coordinating activities (20 years) , (ii) five (6) technical assistants responsible for developments and agricultural advice, and management of land water, and forest resources, local community development, monitoring, evaluation and accounting/financial manager (iii) staff support: secretary, driver, All these personnel, numbering 10, are available within the organization The team will use the specialized services of service providers for specialized work whose skills do not exist within the training organization , solar energy, hydraulic, resilience etc. Carrying out the activities will require the means materials and equipment.

The monitoring and evaluation of the project will be based on a monitoring and evaluation system oriented on Results-Based Management, supporting the overcoming of all identified obstacles .

The delivery of the solution will prioritize community engagement and participation throughout the design and implementation phases of our solution, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered. account. In this context the solution is guided by the contributions and ideas of the communities. Community members will be involved in decision-making processes, conducting needs assessments, group discussions and consultations to understand their priorities, concerns and aspirations. Partnerships with local organizations, government agencies and community leaders will be established in realizing the solution to leverage existing resources and networks. This collaborative approach ensures that our solution is contextually relevant, sustainable and inclusive, benefiting all members of the community. The solution also draws on direct knowledge of the community combined with meaningful engagement and collaboration with local stakeholders.

Enabling a nutritious, low-carbon global food system, between producers as well as supply chains that reduce food loss .

The choice of growth is based on the current level of implementation of the solution. The solution has been the subject of study and thematic analysis (hydraulic, pedological, topographic, socio-economic, environmental and development studies, etc. ) in the project area, also the candidate organization has led and implemented several development projects in the field of food security and sustainable management of forest resources with local communities; which demonstrates our ability to provide large-scale solutions, especially our extensive experience of more than 10 years.

Through these actions in the project area, we have a good knowledge of the environment and the problem of the climate challenge in the area, our track record of successful implementation and tangible impact on the ground demonstrates that we have passed the phase pilot and that we are ready to continue growing and expanding our initiatives to reach even more beneficiaries in the community.

We are applying to Solve because we recognize the immense value Solve offers in terms of connections, resources, and support to take our solution to the next level. The need for funding is large and crucial for our solution, but also Solve provides access to the wider network of partners, mentors and experts who can provide invaluable advice and expertise on various aspects of the implementation of our solution and above all access to various sources of medium-term financing.

One of the specific obstacles we face is the need for investment financing and technical expertise to further develop and scale the solution to the climate challenge. Despite the progress made in evolving the climate solution there are still significant needs and optimization and expansion opportunities that require specialist knowledge and financial support and expertise. Solve 's network of technical experts and potential partners can provide us with access to cutting-edge technologies, best practices and innovative approaches to address challenges related to sustainable agriculture, climate resilience and community empowerment.

Solve 's diverse network and inclusive approach can provide us with insight into cultural sensitivities, market dynamics, and community preferences, allowing us to more effectively tailor our solutions to the needs and realities of the communities we serve. . Also with Solve , we hope to access a wealth of resources, expertise and partnerships that will allow us to overcome these obstacles and accelerate the impact of our solution. We are committed to leveraging the Solve platform to not only raise awareness of our initiatives, but also to collaborate with like-minded organizations and individuals who share our vision of creating positive change in the world.

The solution stands out for its innovative approach to responding to the complex challenges of climate change and food insecurity in the plains of the river ecosystems of the Niger River Basin through the following elements:

(i) A holistic approach: Unlike traditional interventions that focus on particular aspects of agriculture or environmental conservation, our solution adopts a holistic approach that integrates multiple strategies and approach methods. By combining multiple production techniques and technologies to create synergies that improve the resilience of local ecosystems and livelihoods. This comprehensive approach addresses immediate needs, but also strengthens long-term sustainability.

(ii) Community-centric design: Our solution prioritizes community involvement and empowerment every step of the way. From planning to implementation and evaluation, we actively engage direct beneficiaries and other participating parties. By integrating local knowledge, preferences and priorities into our initiatives, we ensure that they are relevant and culturally appropriate, thereby improving their effectiveness and acceptance.

(iii) sustainable techniques and technologies: The solution uses innovative technologies and practices to maximize efficiency and minimize impact, while preserving environmental water resources; agricultural land and vegetation and minimize waste. These techniques and technologies not only improve productivity, but also environmental management and resilience.

(iv) economic empowerment within the community: In addition to environmental benefits, the solution generates economic opportunities for marginalized communities, women and youth. Through training, capacity building and income-generating activities, the solution allows individuals to access autonomous and economically independent means. By harnessing the potential of irrigated agriculture and environmental conservation as drivers of economic growth, the solution helps catalyze wider positive impacts on local economies and livelihoods.

(v) The scalability and replicability of the solution: The solution is designed to be scalable and reproducible in other similar contexts, both in the river ecosystems of the Niger River basin which covers 9 countries over several thousand km2. By documenting best practices, lessons learned and successes, we create a knowledge sharing platform that allows others to adopt and adapt our approach to their own context. This not only amplifies the impact of our solution, but also promotes collaboration and knowledge exchange between diverse parties participating in similar goals.

This innovative solution offers a transformative approach to tackling climate change, food insecurity and poverty. By harnessing the power of community engagement, sustainable technologies and economic empowerment, we catalyze positive change that extends far beyond our immediate interventions, ultimately transforming the market and sustainability landscape in the Niger River basin region

The project is located in the region of Ségou, circle of Macina and rural commune of Macina

The direct beneficiaries are made up of traditional operators of the ecosystems of the Niger River basin including farmers, fishermen, traders and operators of forest resources. They are estimated at 15,200 people distributed among 100 agricultural operations and grouped into socio-professional organizations. It constitutes a community of farmers and fishermen heavily affected by climate change The growth rate within the regional population is 3.1% per year with a predominantly young population of 45%. This youth is faced with unemployment and poverty, the incidence of which is estimated at 69%. The indirect beneficiaries are the populations of 5 villages estimated at 15,780 inhabitants, made up of 45% young people (men and women) aged 16 to 45 who represent the active segment of the population and at the same time the most vulnerable. The average income of the national poverty line is estimated at 300 USD per year / person The majority of the population of the region live below the poverty line The potential beneficiaries could reach more than 5 million people

The target population is made up of small farmers, fishermen beekeepers and horticulturists, many of whom are marginalized and underserved due to climate change. These communities are heavily dependent on rainfall and the annual flooding of the Niger River, and are increasingly vulnerable to climate variability and change.

The solution aims to impact the lives of the entire target beneficiary community through:

(i) Improving household food security , through the diversification of livelihoods and sources of food and income through beekeeping, irrigated agriculture and horticulture, in order to ensure food security and nutrition of vulnerable communities. This will reduce their dependence on rain-fed agriculture and the flooding of the Niger River and mitigate climate risk

(ii) Economic empowerment of women and youth through capacity building sessions and links with consumer markets to enable smallholders and other beneficiaries/entrepreneurs to have the means to generate income through to sustainable agricultural activities. This will create economic opportunities and reduce poverty levels within the community.

(iii) The environmental sustainability of the solution which will be based on the promotion of techniques and technologies and sustainable practices for the management of land, water, and forest resources and the restoration of river ecosystems, thus contributing to the conservation and resilience of the environment. By restoring degraded landscapes and improving biodiversity, to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect natural resources for future generations.

( iv) Community resilience based on the climate resilience plan focused on capacity building and promoting community-led initiatives to reduce climate-related shocks and disasters. The Community Climate Resilience Plan will equip communities with the knowledge and skills needed to adapt to changing environmental conditions and mitigate risks associated with extreme weather events.

The solution addresses their immediate needs which constitute a major climate challenge and promote long-term community climate resilience, creating lasting positive impacts on their lives and well-being.

The impact objectives of our solution are focused on creating positive and measurable changes in the lives of beneficiary communities in the region, with a focus on combating food insecurity, poverty and environmental degradation. environment. environment. Our key impact goals include:

(i) Increases food security: The solution aims to ensure that community members have reliable access to nutritious food sources throughout the year, including the prevalence of hunger and malnutrition. We measure progress toward this goal by tracking indicators such as: - Percentage of households with better access to diverse and nutritious food sources. - Reduction in the prevalence of malnutrition in children and adults.

(ii) poverty reduction: the solution aims to improve household income and economic opportunities for participants, lifting them out of poverty and improving their general well-being. Progress towards this objective is measured through indicators such as: - Increase in household income level. - Percentage of participants reporting improved economic stability and reduced dependence on external aid.

(iii) environmental sustainability: The life solution to promote sustainable agricultural practices, conservation and environmental sustainability, including techniques for sustainable management of water, agricultural land and forest resources, biodiversity conservation, improving soil health and mitigating climate change. Progress in this area is assessed through indicators such as: - Expansion of forest cover and reforestation efforts. - Improvement of soil fertility and measures to combat erosion. - Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration.

(iv) Community Resilience: The solution aims to build the resilience of vulnerable communities, enabling them to cope and adapt to the impacts of climate change and other challenges. We measure progress towards this objective by monitoring indicators such as: - Participation and engagement of the population in decision-making processes related to resource management and climate adaptation. - Strengthen social cohesion and mutual support networks within communities.

To measure our progress toward these impact goals, we use a combination of quantitative and qualitative data collection methods, including surveys, interviews, focus group discussions, and participatory assessments. We also use relevant indicators associated with the Sustainable Development Goals, aligning our monitoring and evaluation efforts with internationally recognized sustainability benchmarks. Regular monitoring and evaluation activities allow us to assess the effectiveness of our interventions, identify areas for improvement and make evidence-based decisions to optimize our impact on the ground.

The solution leverages a combination of traditional knowledge systems and modern technologies to address the challenges faced by communities in the Niger River Basin region. At the heart of our approach is the integration of innovative agricultural techniques, with traditional agricultural practices adapted to the local environment.

1 Irrigated agricultural technology The solution uses the design of a hydraulic scheme ensuring the safety of watering agricultural and developed plots, equipped with a solar collection kit, a water supply channel, a perimeter dike and drain protection. The system will be equipped with sensors, for optimal water management

The dissemination of innovative irrigated agricultural technologies and techniques adapted to climate change through the development and application of innovative irrigated production techniques including the management of agricultural soils through the use of organic fertilizers, management and use rational use of water _ in irrigation _ systems as well as the use of high-performance seeds (high-yielding hybrid rice, improved market gardening cultivar) for the production of paddy rice over two production cycles per year and one cycle market gardening production, in order to optimize crop yields while preserving water and agricultural soil resources. Water and land monitoring and analysis kits will be developed to ensure better management and control of natural resources.

2. Beekeeping Technology: We use modern hive designs and monitoring tools to optimize honey production while ensuring the conservation of bee populations by relying on traditional knowledge of bee management. This includes using modular hive systems equipped with sensors to monitor hive health, temperature and humidity. Additionally, we use modern beehive management and honey extraction techniques to improve productivity and quality.

3. Afforestation Strategies: Our solution integrates modern forestry techniques with indigenous knowledge systems to restore and expand forest cover in the region, coupled with community reforestation initiatives and agroforestry models to improve biodiversity and ecosystem services . By combining these modern technologies with traditional knowledge systems, we aim to create a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. The solution enables communities to adapt to climate change, improve food security and strengthen their resilience, while promoting the preservation of cultural heritage and ecological balance.

The activities will be carried out by the NGO ADAM in consortium with an engineering consulting firm BOMBEY Ing. through a team of 10 people with more than 15 years of practical experience. The members already available within the organization are dedicated full-time to management, the technical implementation of activities and the coordination of the project (Technical assistants responsible for developments and agricultural activities). advice, and management of land, water and forest resources, community development, monitoring and evaluation). The team will use the specialized services of providers for specialized work

Our solution has been in development since 2017, during which we searched for partnerships to carry out feasibility studies. In 2019-2022, we were able to carry out thematic technical studies and determine the solution's approach and implementation plan with stakeholders to address the challenges faced by local communities. We are committed to iteratively improving our solution to ensure it is effective and sustainable in meeting the needs of the communities we serve. We are currently seeking funding to establish the solution

Our team is deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in all aspects of our work. We recognize that diversity of perspectives and experiences is essential to drive innovation and effectively address the complex challenges facing communities. That's why we've taken intentional steps to ensure our team reflects a diverse range of backgrounds, identities, and perspectives.

The leadership team is diverse and made up of people from diverse cultural, ethnic and professional backgrounds. We believe that this diversity at the highest levels of our organization not only enriches our decision-making processes, but also serves as a model for promoting inclusion within our team.

We have established clear goals to improve diversity, equity and inclusion within our team. These goals include increasing the representation of underrepresented groups, including women, ethnic minorities and individuals from marginalized communities, at all levels of our organization. We actively work to recruit team members from diverse backgrounds and provide them with opportunities for growth and advancement within our organization.

To minimize barriers to opportunity for staff, we have implemented policies and practices aimed at creating an inclusive work environment. This involves offering flexible work arrangements to meet various needs and commitments, providing training and continuing development opportunities to support professional growth, and fostering open communication channels where all team members feel empowered to express their views and concerns.

Additionally, we prioritize creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all team members. We have established channels for feedback and dialogue, including regular team meetings and anonymous suggestion boxes, to ensure all voices are heard and valued. We actively promote mutual respect, empathy and collaboration among team members, recognizing that diverse perspectives strengthen our collective impact. To this end, our team is committed to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work. We believe that by fostering a diverse and inclusive team, we can better meet the needs of communities and drive positive social change on a larger scale.

The economic model of the solution is based on the strategy of economic growth and sustainable human social development based on measurable positive changes in the lives of beneficiary communities in the region, with a focus on combating food insecurity, poverty and environmental degradation and especially resilience to climate change. climate change in vulnerable communities. In doing so, the economic model is based on the following points: (i) By ensuring accumulated food security to target groups, the solution will reduce the prevalence of hunger and malnutrition within households through access to food sources diverse and nutritious.

(ii) By reducing poverty among vulnerable groups, the solution helps increase household income and economic opportunities and improves their general well-being. The rate of increase can reach and exceed 100% per year

   (iii) the environmental sustainability of the solution is based on sustainable agricultural practices, conservation and environmental sustainability, including techniques for sustainable management of water, agricultural land and forest resources, biodiversity conservation, improving soil health and mitigating climate change. The solution will contribute to (i) the expansion of forest cover through reforestation actions (ii) the improvement of soil fertility and measures to combat soil erosion and (iii) the reduction of carbon emissions. greenhouse gases and carbon sequestration.

(iv) The solution through capacity building actions ensures the resilience of vulnerable communities, able to cope and adapt to the impacts of climate change and other challenges. Community resilience will also ensure (i) social cohesion and mutual support networks within communities and (ii) the participation and engagement of the population in decision-making processes related to resource management and adaptation. to the climate.

The economic analysis and monitoring of the solution will be carried out through a combination of quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods, including surveys, interviews, focus group discussions and participatory evaluations. We also use relevant indicators associated with the Sustainable Development Goals, aligning our monitoring and evaluation efforts with internationally recognized sustainability benchmarks. Regular monitoring and evaluation activities allow us to assess the effectiveness of our interventions, identify areas for improvement and make evidence-based decisions to optimize our impact on the ground and economic and economic benefits. economic. social solution to drive positive social change on a larger scale.

The financial viability of the solution will be based on the expected results of the products and activities implemented and on the capacity of the team and members of the beneficiary community to ensure the proper execution of the project and the mobilization of financial resources for the achievement of the goals. investments. The viability and sustainability of the solution will be based on technical, financial, economic, institutional and political viability as follows:

On a technical and technological level, the adequacy between production needs and the capacities and needs of the market and consumers will be a factor in technical performance and medium-term viability of production and marketing infrastructures.

On the economic and financial level: The activities defined by the project will be implemented by all stakeholders, on the basis of the voluntary commitment of each. The operational result constitutes a reliable source of income for the beneficiaries which will facilitate and encourage the continuation of their activities. The expected results will enable beneficiaries to improve their living conditions and increase their income.

At the institutional level, to better take into account the concerns of stakeholders, the project will adopt from the start, the conceptual framework and methodological approach of the process of strengthening the organizational capacities of beneficiaries in order to have local and umbrella organizations by sector to ensure the defense of the interests of stakeholders.

The viability of the project will be maintained by the functionality of the ADAM Organization and its partner and existing professional organizations. They constitute durable structures. Furthermore, the partner government structures having participated in the implementation of the project and responsible for monitoring, will be entrusted with sufficient responsibility to ensure the institutional sustainability of the activities which fall within their public service mission.

At the political level, the project will have a very significant structural impact at local, regional and national levels. It alone constitutes a notable step forward in Mali in the strategy of job creation and promotion of agricultural production and adaptation to climate change. It translates the options of the different planning and development reference frameworks of the Country.

Evidence that the financial viability plan for the solution has already been implemented and succeeded is supported by various forms of evidence, including:

     (i) the visible achievements of the development actions carried out by the Organization with communities in the area of household food security, and the sustainable management of natural resources or sustainability has been ensured by the community itself according to the same plan approaches

(ii) Research on the effectiveness of interventions and sustainability has been established through thematic studies already carried out where the viability plan was established with the participation of beneficiary communities.

(iii) The organization's experiences during actions carried out in past years