Livestock Sector Support Programme Phase 2 (PASEM 2)

Mali

ongoing

A person in traditional attire stands in front of a sign for Cooperative GNA de Tombouctou, related to milk processing and selling.

PASEM-2 strengthens the resilience and competitiveness of Mali’s livestock sector by supporting inclusive meat and milk value chains, with a focus on women, youth and fragile regions.

The Livestock Sector Support Program (PASEM-2) strengthens the resilience, productivity and inclusiveness of Mali's livestock sector, with a focus on meat and milk value chains in fragile and conflict-affected regions. Funded by the Swiss Cooperation (SDC/BUCO), the programme is implemented by a consortium led by SNV, in partnership with Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Suisse (VSF Suisse) and supported by four national NGOs

For the duration of four years (2023-2027), PASEM-2 contributes to economic recovery, social cohesion and job creation, particularly for women and young people, by strengthening market systems, improving governance of pastoral resources and expanding inclusive access to services. It positions livestock as a key driver of resilience and inclusive economic development in fragile contexts.

The challenge

Mali's livestock sector operates in a complex environment shaped by climate variability, insecurity, low productivity and insufficient infrastructure in meat and dairy value chains. These constraints significantly affect pastoral and agro-pastoral livelihoods, increase pressure on natural resources and limit economic opportunities.

Access to finance, veterinary services, quality inputs and structured markets remains limited, especially for women and youth. At the same time, weak governance of pastoral resources and insufficient coordination among stakeholders contribute to inefficiencies and heightened risks of conflict in fragile regions.

The approach

PASEM-2 addresses these challenges through a systemic and adaptive approach structured around three strategic pillars:

  • Market systems and competitiveness: Strengthening value chain actors to improve productivity, product quality and competitiveness of agro-pastoral enterprises and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

  • Enabling environment and governance: Improving institutional, regulatory and infrastructure conditions to support inclusive, equitable and conflict-sensitive governance of pastoral resources.

  • Financial inclusion and investment: Expanding access to finance and investment, while strengthening risk management capacities for livestock actors.

The program applies adaptive management and integrates the Humanitarian–Development–Peace (HDP) Nexus, alongside gender equality, social inclusion and conflict sensitivity (GESI). Close collaboration with local authorities, technical services and producer organisations ensures alignment with local realities and strengthens stakeholder trust.

Two people stand outside a kiosk promoting Mali's livestock support program, with a colorful mural and blue signage above.

Anticipated project outcomes

PASEM-2 is designed to deliver measurable, system-level impact across Mali's livestock sector:

  • 85,000 pastoralists and agro-pastoralists reached, with increased resilience to climate and economic shocks

  • Enhanced productivity and competitiveness of meat and milk value chains, leading to higher incomes for producers and enterprises

  • Improved access to markets, finance and quality services, particularly for women and youth

  • Strengthened governance of natural resources, contributing to reduced conflict risks and improved social cohesion

  • 150 MSMEs supported to grow, invest and create jobs within and beyond intervention zones

  • 40 cooperatives and 7 umbrella organisations strengthened, improving representation and sector coordination