Mali: Agriculture Ministry vows to resolve input shortages ahead of 2025-2026 farming season

At a press conference on Wednesday, Mali’s Ministry of Agriculture pledged to ensure the success of the 2025-2026 farming season, despite farmers’ concerns over delayed fertilizer and seed supplies.
Yacouba Traoré, head of the Cotton Producers’ Cooperative Confederation (C-SCPC), highlighted recurring challenges, including input shortages and late cotton payments, which continue to hinder agricultural growth.
Agriculture Minister Daniel Siméon Kelema acknowledged the delays but assured that authorities were working to resolve them. “This situation is beyond our control, but since September, top-level measures have been taken,” he said, promising swift solutions.
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Souleymane Yacouba, National Agriculture Director, reported progress, stating that 21,543 tons of fertilizer are ready in Abidjan, with full distribution expected by July 10.
Farmers, however, remain worried. Many have postponed planting due to the delays, compounded by security risks and unpredictable weather, raising fears for the upcoming season’s productivity.
Neil Camara