Empowering agro-pastoralists in Mali
The transformative power of reliable information.
In Mali, agriculture and livestock are more than just sources of livelihood - they are the backbone of the economy and the heart of rural life. Yet, for pastoralists and agro-pastoralists, challenges like climate change, market volatility, and increasing insecurity threaten their way of life.
To address these challenges, the STAMP+ (Sustainable Technology Adaptation for Mali's Pastoralists) project has introduced a game-changing solution. With support from the Netherlands Space Office, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the Swiss Development Cooperation in Mali, the project leverages innovative digital tools to boost resilience and drive economic and social benefits for pastoral and agro-pastoral households.
At the core of the project is the GARBAL digital service, a decision-support tool that uses satellite data and field information to provide actionable insights. By simply calling a hotline, pastoralists gain real-time access to information on biomass and water availability, weather forecasts, and market prices for agricultural and livestock products - all in their local languages. With these insights, they can plan migration routes, optimize resource use, and increase their productivity and incomes. GARBAL also promotes gender and youth inclusion by enabling equitable access to vital resources and fostering financial independence.
Read through four inspiring stories of how GARBAL has helped empower communities. Each story underscores a common thread: the power of timely, accurate information to foster resilience, unlock opportunities, and build trust.
Uniting women and building wealth: How Aissata transformed the DIAMWARI cooperative
'Garbal has improved our income and inspired trust within the DIAMWARI Cooperative,' says 38-year-old Aissata Maïgouma, president of a women’s group in Djenné. Before using GARBAL, the group struggled with unpredictable livestock prices and broker fees, fueling mistrust among members.
Since adopting GARBAL use in 2021, the cooperative accesses accurate cattle prices, plans fattening cycles, and sells exclusively for cash. Profits now reach 50,000–75,000 FCFA per head, and the cooperative earned a net profit of 500,000 FCFA in its latest sale.
This financial stability has strengthened trust and inspired others to join. Profits are reinvested in projects and small loans for members. Aissata’s leadership, supported by the STAMP+ project, has transformed DIAMWARI into a model of unity and resilience.
From losses to growth: Amadou’s journey to resilience
For 50-year-old cattle breeder Amadou Sankaré, the GARBAL digital service has been life-changing. With over 30 years of experience, Amadou once struggled with unpredictable transhumance journeys, leading to livestock losses and wasted resources.
Since learning about GARBAL in 2022, Amadou has relied on its insights into water availability, grazing areas, and market prices. Losses have dropped, milk production has doubled, and healthier livestock fetch higher market values. With his profits, Amadou plans to upgrade his family’s traditional huts, securing a better future.
Amadou believes others in nearby regions could benefit from GARBAL’s services, showcasing its potential to transform pastoralist communities.
Climate-proofing livelihoods: Asseidou’s path to smarter herd management
'GARBAL has helped me reduce herd losses,' says 50-year-old shepherd Asseidou, whose livelihood once suffered from unreliable seasonal patterns. Climate change made planning difficult, leading to unexpected losses.
Since adopting GARBAL use in 2017, Asseidou receives real-time weather alerts and safe migration routes, helping him identify weak animals and plan feeding strategies. Feed costs have dropped significantly, and herd productivity has improved.
GARBAL also provides pricing insights, allowing Asseidou to save on essential supplies. With fewer losses and increased efficiency, Asseidou now sees himself as an entrepreneurial breeder, better prepared to face climate uncertainties.
Empowering Women Through Knowledge: Mouna’s Fight Against Vulnerability
'GARBAL helps reduce women’s vulnerability,' says 45-year-old Mouna Awata of the Banodogo Association (Peace Place) in Mali. Women in her community often face limited income opportunities, despite playing key roles in food security.
Since 2021, Mouna’s association has used GARBAL to access market prices, plan livestock purchases, and optimize feed and animal health management. The service also reduces the need for women to attend markets, fostering trust within families as decisions are made collaboratively.
GARBAL has given women like Mouna a voice in financial decisions, enhancing their autonomy and resilience. Today, the association’s members are more independent and empowered, paving the way for lasting change.
Knowledge is power
These stories reveal a unifying theme: the transformative power of reliable information. Whether it’s boosting incomes, fostering unity, or enabling smarter resource management, GARBAL equips agro-pastoralists with tools to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. The STAMP+ project’s integration of digital solutions with community-based support systems has amplified its impact, creating lasting change across Mali.
As the project continues, its success serves as a blueprint for how innovation, partnerships, and resilience can converge to empower communities and build a sustainable future.