Together with its partner organizations, national and local NGOs, Diakonia works nearly in all regions of Mali. The thematic areas of our work in Mali are: Human Rights, Democracy, Social and Economic Justice, Education and Gender Equality.

Poor population

After many years of military dictatorship, Mali has since 1992 been a relatively stable democracy. However, in March 2012 there was a coup d'etat, just a few weeks before the planned elections.

The country is situated in the inner parts of West Africa and has rich cultural traditions.

In the medieval times the desert town of Timbuktu was known as one of the Muslim worlds’ most important universities and modern Mali music has made an impact worldwide. But economically Mali is one of the poorest countries in Africa. Although rich in minerals and one of the world’s largest gold producers – in 2010 gold accounted for more than 80 per cent of the Mali’s export – only a very small portion of the revenues seeps down to the Mali people. The large majority of the population lives of cultivation for household use or livestock.

More women involved

Since 1998 Diakonia works with partner organizations at all levels of society and in almost all regions of the country. Diakonia’s partners address issues such as the weak democratic governance, the low access of the rural population to justice and women’s participation in politics. In 1999 the government of Mali initiated a decentralization process. The 2009 municipal election was an important stage in this process. The elections revealed a new interest in politics among women, where the number of elected women in the municipalities increased. Diakonia’s partner organizations were involved in this work.

Progress made

Another focus area is the question of gender inequalities, violence and harmful practices against women and girls. Diakonia’s partner organizations have contributed in diminishing the violence against women, for example in regards to the practice of female genital mutilation. Partners also work to increase marginalized society groups access to basic services such as health, clean drinking water and education. And in these areas progress has been made thanks’ to the advocacy work of partner organizations.

Diakonia’s partner organizations in Mali have contributed in diminishing the violence against women. Photo: Robban Andersson

Story of change Fatoumata Almoudidjé is recognized as the most determined person in the fight against the climate change in her village Douekiré, Mali. She has support from Diakonia's partner organization AMSS: Adapting to climate change   Strategic work plan Diakonia's work is based on a strategic workplan, covering both short term and long term goals. For updated information on specific issues, please contact us.   Contact information - Diakonia in Africa List of partner organisations in Africa