Mali, Sustainable Development through improved Local Governance

SDLG Mali aims to help local authorities address the drivers of conflict in a non-violent and inclusive way. The programme focuses on four main objectives:

1. More inclusive, responsive and accountable local governance, especially in water management and land administration.
2. More effective and inclusive leadership of local governments and their associations;
3. More empowered societal groups.
4. Better coordination of intergovernmental policies on conflict prevention and management.

Approach

The programme works with four intercommunal frameworks in the regions of Sikasso, Bougouni and Koulikoro to address conflicts related to natural resource management. These frameworks are known as intercollectivités: formal cooperation structures in Mali that bring together multiple municipalities to jointly manage shared resources and address common challenges.

The approach is bottom-up, participatory and inclusive. For each intercollectivité SDLG has developed tailored plans to build skills and capacity based on local needs and objectives. At the same time, all partners focus on improving inclusive governance and developing practical mechanisms for conflict prevention. In this way, intercollectivités are strengthened as a tool to promote peaceful and inclusive societies through better natural resource management.

Results

• A Training of Trainers approach has created a group of local trainers in each region. They now deliver training on inclusive governance and conflict management.
• Activities have brought together local authorities and other stakeholders. This has helped to identify sources of conflict, start dialogue and work towards shared solutions.