Special Representative of the European Union for the Sahel visits ICRISAT in Mali

Media Release

The European Union's Special Representative for the Sahel, Ms Emanuela Claudia Del Re, recently visited the EU-APSAN-Mali Project (Enhancing Crop Productivity and Climate Resilience for Food and Nutrition Security), which has been effectively implemented by ICRISAT since 2019.

Ms Del Re and her team engaged in a comprehensive overview of the project on Monday, 18 March, touring essential facilities such as the pathology laboratory, genebank, seed processing facility, sorghum demonstration fields, and a greenhouse, all of which received EU funding as part of the APSAN project.

During her visit, Ms Del Re had the opportunity to witness firsthand the production of processed foods boasting substantial nutritional value, derived from millet, sorghum, groundnut, and cowpea. These efforts are part of the Smart Food initiative, jointly led by ICRISAT, IER, and local partners, which include Malian farmers, women farmer organizations, and the private sector.

Ms Emanuela Claudia Del Re, EU Special Representative for the Sahel, visits the Pathology Laboratory at ICRISAT-Mali.

A visit to the sorghum seed production plots also offered a platform to highlight the improved and released varieties developed by ICRISAT as part of the project. This was complemented by a small exhibition featuring the millet and groundnut varieties being promoted.

"This is a wonderful opportunity to witness a project that truly exemplifies the power of collaboration between the EU, local authorities, communities, academic expertise, youth, and women," Ms Del Re said, reflecting on her experience, following the visit of EU-APSAN-Mali project’s activities and impacts.

"I extend my gratitude to all involved for their competence and passion. I am proud that the EU has championed this initiative. Together, we can enhance the lives of people and provide a promising future for Mali's incredible youth."

Director General of ICRISAT, Dr Jacqueline d'Arros Hughes, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the importance of continued partnership in advancing sustainable development goals.

"Partnerships are the bedrock of our journey towards sustainable agricultural practices, and the EU stands as a valued ally. Through collaborative initiatives like this, engaging stakeholders from diverse sectors, we are able to amplify our impact, fostering enduring, beneficial transformations for both the environment and the communities we are dedicated to serving," Dr Hughes shared.

In closing, Dr Bright Jumbo, Senior Scientist - Crop Improvement Operations and Interim Country Representative for ICRISAT in Mali, expressed gratitude to the EU for their ongoing support of ICRISAT's mission in Mali through the APSAN project.

''I offer my heartfelt appreciation to the European Union for its unwavering support of ICRISAT's mission towards farmers and women farmers in Mali. Our partnership is driving sustainable agricultural development and enhancing livelihoods,'' emphasized Dr Jumbo.

Accompanying Ms Del Re was Mr Pascal Perennec, Chargé d'affaires of the European Union delegation to Mali, along with members of her team, underscoring the EU's commitment to the project and its significance in fostering sustainable development in the Sahel region.

The visit concluded with Ms Emanuela Claudia Del Re planting a tree in the garden of CIFOR-ICRAF (a CGIAR center hosted by ICRISAT in Mali).