Farmers in Mali’s Sikasso region are increasingly adopting nature based solutions to combat severe soil degradation, declining crop quality and the growing impacts of climate change. The shift comes as decades of deforestation, intensive farming, chemical fertilizer use and erratic weather patterns continue to harm agricultural productivity and threaten livelihoods.
The Sikasso region, Mali’s third largest, relies heavily on agriculture. Over recent years, farmers have witnessed worrying levels of soil exhaustion, erosion and biodiversity loss. In response, many are now producing their own organic fertilizers and natural pesticides using locally available materials such as leaves, ash, manure, ginger, garlic and chili.
According to farmer Lassina Sanogo, whose family has farmed the area for generations, chemical fertilizers have become increasingly harmful. “These chemicals weaken and acidify our soils. They contaminate water and degrade biodiversity,” he explained. He noted that nature based solutions not only restore soil health but also improve yields and reduce costs.
Women farmers are also playing a significant role. Fanta Diamoutené, who leads a women’s group producing organic fertilizers, said the approach has helped farmers save money and generate income by selling surplus products. She however highlighted challenges, including lack of equipment for large-scale production and limited financial support.
Development partners are helping scale up the movement. Youssouf Traoré of the International Fertilizer Development Center said his organisation provides training, technical guidance and links farmers with markets and financial institutions. Agriculture expert Pierre Coulibaly added that natural fertilizers improve soil fertility, boost yields and protect biodiversity, making them an effective alternative to synthetic chemicals.
The Malian government has also committed to supporting sustainable agriculture. Souleymane Yacouba, Director of the National Directorate of Agriculture, said state policies promote composting, agroforestry and regulated use of farm inputs. While national data on the use of nature based solutions is limited, he noted that less than 20 percent of farmers currently adopt these practices.
Government plans include expanding agroecological initiatives, supporting small scale farmers, strengthening agricultural resilience and improving food security.
The adoption of nature based solutions in Sikasso is becoming a model for environmentally friendly farming in Mali. As farmers embrace organic fertilizers and natural pest control, experts say these practices will not only restore soil fertility but also help safeguard biodiversity, improve health and strengthen community resilience in the face of climate change.
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