Mali: Selected Issues

This Selected Issues paper focuses on climate vulnerabilities and food insecurity in Mali. Mali is extremely vulnerable to climate change and the country is already facing acute climate-related challenges from higher temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events. The impact of climate change has also contributed to a rise in food insecurity, with almost a quarter of the population expected to be either facing food insecurity or at risk of doing so by mid-2023. That is already having a hugely damaging effect on Mali’s economy and action is needed immediately to avoid a further increase in food insecurity. Building future resilience to climate change will require effective adaptation strategies in the primary sector. With climate change already adding to food insecurity in Mali, there is an urgent need to address these related issues. The country is extremely vulnerable to climate change, and food insecurity is rising. Any further increase in food insecurity has the potential to exacerbate social tensions, with the risk of further conflict. It will also have a lasting adverse impact on economic growth and poverty. There is therefore a pressing need to act immediately.