Focus on Mali
The Problems of one of the World's Poorest Countries
Threatened Inner Niger Delta
Mali is a land of ancient kingdoms but today it is one of the world's poorest countries.
It faces a myriad of problems ranging from long-term poverty to environmental degradation.
JICA is involved in a series of projects to help tackle some of those issues.
The country's famed Inner Niger Delta region is in crisis and a four-year project is developing a plan of action to use resources in a more sustainable way.
Another program is helping to stop the spread of desertification.
To improve education standards in a nation with one of the world's lowest literacy rates, the concept of local school management committees have been introduced and vocational training strengthened.
Basic infrastructure such as roads and bridges are being improved and a famed Japanese management system, the so-called 5Ss is improving hospital care.
And a new fish market, which has been likened to Tokyo's own famed Tsukiji fish market was recently opened to help bolster Mali's important fishing industry.
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Saving an Endangered Water Wonderland
Mali's Inner Niger Delta, one of Africa's most important eco-systems is under threat. A four-year project is helping to tackle the problem.
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Involving Parents at School
Involving Parents at School More than 70% of Mali's population is illiterate. To improve the country's education performance, JICA has helped establish a grass roots system of school management committees.
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Combating Desertification
Creeping desertification is threatening the landlocked West African state of Mali. Japanese experts and volunteers are participating in a program to better understand desertification and develop projects to halt its spread.
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Making Travel Easier
Africa's economic development is being hampered by the lack of good roads, bridges, ports and other infrastructure. The main road link between Mali and Senegal has been upgraded to bring benefits to the entire region.
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Tokyo's Famed Tsukiji Market in Mali
With Japanese financial and technical assistance Mali has a new, gleaming central fish market. It will improve significantly the country's fishing industry.
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Needed: More Skilled Artisans
African countries increasingly need more and more skilled workers, plumbers, electricians and carpenters. One Japanese volunteer is helping to train local women in dress and fashion design.
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Sprucing Up an African Hospital – Japanese Style
A set of Japanese working practices—the so called 5Ss are being applied in a regional hospital. The system is helping to improve overall patient care.
