COP16 on desertification was completed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, after several days of intense discussions, negotiations and sharing of experiences. This summit helped to mobilize the international community on an urgent issue: combating desertification and land degradation, which affect millions of people living in poverty. throughout the world, especially in Sahelian regions.

Mali, as a Sahelian country heavily affected by these phenomena, took an active part in the work of this COP. The challenges facing the country, including accelerated land degradation, the advance of the desert and increasing pressure on natural resources, require strategic and appropriate responses. In Riyadh, Mali highlighted its vision and concrete solutions to reverse these trends.

The Degraded Land Restoration Project (PRTD-Mali) was an important part of the Malian delegation. This project, which is part of national priorities, represents a concrete model for combating land degradation. It is based on innovative approaches that combine ecological restoration, strengthening the livelihoods of local people and promoting sustainable management of natural resources.

COP16 shared the successes of PRTD-Mali and highlighted pilot actions such as the rehabilitation of drylands, watershed management and the integration of non-wood forest products into local value chains. These efforts help build community resilience to the increasing impacts of climate change, while supporting food and economic security.

Beyond the commitments made by individual countries, the COP also stressed the importance of funding and partnerships to accelerate efforts on the ground. For Mali, resource mobilization and networking of initiatives will be key to achieving the goals set and meeting the expectations of the people.

The closing of this COP16 thus marks a decisive step in the fight against desertification. For Mali, work does not stop in Riyadh. They continue on the ground, in the most vulnerable regions, where solutions must be translated into concrete, visible and impacting actions. More than ever, combating desertification becomes a common priority, requiring collective and sustainable mobilization.

Mali determined to turn challenges into opportunities for present and future generations.