Diversification of Agricultural Value Chains and Rural Development in Mali: Case of Kita Cercle

This paper aims to examine the added value of agricultural value chain diversification in rural areas development in Mali, as illustrated by the case of Kita Circle. To do so, qualitative and quantitative data were collected in May 2023 among 97 surveyed persons through a questionnaire. Descriptive and comparative methods were used. Focus groups were also organized in order to evaluate the benefits and challenges of value chain diversification. The results demonstrated the role of value chain diversification in rural development. While diversifying their production systems, farmers are able to increase their income by expanding production and accessing new markets. Diversification so contributed to poverty reduction and improved living standards in rural areas: farmers have spread their risks and reduced their dependence on one product and one market. Diversification also contributed to food security, malnutrition reduction and health improvement. In addition, it also promoted environmental sustainability by reducing pressure on natural resources, such as land and water. Despite such positive aspects, challenges are still to be addressed. Access to credit is uneasy for farmers who would like to invest in new crops and technologies. Mali is also vulnerable to climate change effects and farmers have a limited access to markets for high-value products like fruits and vegetables, which limits the prices they can get and the diversification possibilities.