The project is working to reduce poverty by increasing the revenue of producers, collectors and exporters. The project is centered in six regions, including some of the most vulnerable provinces of Mali. It is also part of regional efforts to create a “Great Green Wall of Africa” with the goal of halting the advance of the Sahara desert. This is significant for Mali because over 60% of Mali’s total surface area is already either arid or semi-arid.

Results

• 177 gum arabic cooperatives have now been established at the local level, and 19 unions of gum arabic cooperatives have been established at the district level.

• 13 sites for gum arabic production have been identified, with geophysical studies having been carried out in 8 of the sites.

• 3 tons of Senegalese acacia seed have been acquired, which is enough to plant 10,000 hectares.

• 82 representatives from gum arabic producers, NGO partners and the forestry sector were trained in 10 workshops. They will now be responsible for training in the 13 districts covered by the project.

• A forestry expert developed a training guide, modules and guidelines for training participants covering gum arabic producing techniques.

• The participation of the National Implementation Unit resulted in the announcement of the creation of three Centers for Trade and Integrated Development, which will receive financial support from the KIP International School.

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