Farming meets solar power in Africa – Part 6 (Webinar 12/23)

Mr. Yacouba Koné, Advisor to the Malian Ministry of Rural Development, described the current situation of the agricultural and energy sector in Mali. Currently, 80% of the working population is employed in agriculture contributing 33% of the national GDP. However, climate change is worsening the already difficult situation of farmers by shortening the growing season and reducing the profitability of crops. This also further exacerbates the food security problems in Mali.

The government has the ambition to overcome these challenges. The vision is that “By 2030, the entire Malian population has, at all times and in all places, equitable access to a quality, balanced, sufficient and healthy diet that meets its energy needs and food and nutritional preferences.”

Challenges are also apparent in the energy sector with a low electrification rate, especially in rural areas. Electricity is particularly needed for lighting and refrigeration.

Mr. Koné emphasized the potential of Mali with its high solar radiation (5-7 kWh/m2/day) and abundance of arable land. In other words, ideal conditions for agrivoltaics. Agrivoltaics can help to overcome some of the urgent problems by increasing the diversity and productivity in the agricultural sector, creating new businesses and jobs for young people, increasing the rural electrification rate, and reducing post-harvest losses.

Ibrahim recognized the ambitious plans of the government for expanding renewable energy and the political will to modernize the agricultural sector in the discussion. He highlighted the importance of networking and knowledge exchange to realize the potential of agrivoltaics in Mali.

Please feel free to watch the recorded webinar on YouTube if you are interested in hearing the full presentation and discussion.