ICRISAT Archival Report 2006 - The seedlings of success in the ...

distributed in the northern region of Mali in collaboration with NGOs and extension services. The technology will
be up-scaled to other northern regions of Mali (Tombouctou and Kidal) in DMP Phase 3.
2.1.4 Contribution to the overall DMP project goals and objectives
The African Market Garden using drip irrigation contributes to the restoration and conservation of biodiversity
through the diversification of crops (Output 2 on development and implementation of strategies for conservation,
restoration and sustainable use of degraded agro-ecosystems). It also enables the diversification of income sources
and helps to reduce poverty (Output 4 on testing and promotion of sustainable alternative livelihoods).
2.1.5 Projected potential impact
The African Market Garden will be disseminated in at least 25 households, 20 women gardens and 10 youth
gardens.
2.2. Dissemination of Pomme du Sahel or Ziziphus mauritania
The improved Ziziphus is a plant commonly used by the northern population of Mali for different needs (human
consumption of the fruits, use of the leaves, roots and tree bark for as medicine and leaves as livestock feed). The
improved Ziziphus also constitutes a source of diversification of cultures and incomes.
2.2.1 The basis for the technology’s success
The cultivars of Pomme du Sahel that are used include Gola, Seb, Umuran, Ben Gurion, and Katle. During the
months of October 2005 to January 2006, scions were collected and grafting was done.
Fruits of Ziziphus mauritania are consumed by the people in the northern part of Mali as a part of their regular diet.
The large size of the fruits is a major factor that enhances the adoption of the technology.
2.2.2 How is it implemented?
Various meetings were held between DMP Mali and its partners for the purpose of sensitization. Guided tours of the
nurseries were also conducted in CRRA of GAO and the Bagoudje station for partners. Training courses were given
on grafting techniques and nursery management. DMP Mali also trained students in agroforestry technologies
(grafting of Pomme du Sahel) in collaboration with Centre Régional de Recherche Agronomique (CRRA) of GAO
and the Professional Center of training for the promotion of Agriculture in the Sahel (CFPPAS). Partners include
NGOs and development agencies.
Field days were organized for producers and extension agents. Training in agroforestry technologies were also
organized in collaboration with the International Center for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF) Samanko (Mali) on
grafting techniques.
2.2.3 Up-scaling the technology
This technology is up-scaled mainly through training of partners and rural communities in grafting techniques and
demonstrations. Different agreements have been signed by DMP Mali with many NGOs partners for a large
diffusion of the technology. In addition, women associations were formed in Bagoundié and Berrahs for grafting of
improved Ziziphus and for establishment of small plantations as means of additional income. During Phase III of the
project, the improved Ziziphus will be distributed in all northern regions of Mali such as Tombouctous and Kidals in
view of their request for the technology.
2.2.4 Contribution to the overall DMP project goals and objectives
The dissemination of Pomme du Sahel contributes to the restoration of biodiversity and the diversification of income
of the producers as well as reducing poverty (Output 4 on testing and promotion of sustainable alternative
livelihoods).
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