On Saturday, July 26, 2026, a delegation from the UNESCO office in Mali, led by its Acting Head and Representative, Mr. Ali-Mohamed Sinane, participated in the official launch ceremony of the 32nd edition of the national reforestation campaign. Held at the Palais des Pionniers in Bamako, the event was presided over by General of Division Abdoulaye Maïga, Prime Minister and Head of Government, representing the President of the Transition.

The ceremony brought together key figures including government officials, national institutions, technical and financial partners, civil society organizations, private sector representatives, and associations of women and youth. It also rallied numerous stakeholders committed to environmental protection, sustainable natural resource management, and combating the effects of climate change.

Empowering youth for a greener Mali

The 32nd edition of the campaign, themed “Youth at the Heart of Environmental Citizenship for a Greener and More Resilient Mali,” aligns with national efforts to restore ecosystems, combat desertification, and preserve natural resources. A major focus is on mobilizing citizens, particularly young people, as pivotal actors in the ecological transition.

The campaign aims to plant 21 million seedlings across the country during the rainy season, contributing to the creation of a more sustainable and resilient Mali. By joining this initiative, UNESCO reaffirms its commitment to supporting Mali in raising awareness among communities, building local capacities, and promoting innovative solutions to strengthen ecosystem resilience against environmental and climate challenges.

The event underscored the critical role of collective action in addressing climate change and fostering environmental stewardship. With youth engagement as a cornerstone, the campaign seeks to inspire long-term behavioral change and sustainable development practices nationwide.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst