The Malian government has launched a project aimed at providing sustainable solutions to forced displacement in the regions of Sikasso and Ségou. The project, financed by the European Union to the tune of €4,089 billion, was launched by Minister of Urbanism, Housing, Domains, Territorial Planning and Population, Imirane Abdoulaye Touré. The initiative seeks to establish an effective intervention framework to develop and extend sustainable solutions for forcibly displaced persons in these regions.
According to Minister Imirane Abdoulaye Touré, the project is built on the conviction that sustainable solutions to forced displacement can only be achieved in strong, inclusive, resilient, and capable territories that offer every citizen prospects for fulfillment and dignity. The government, in collaboration with its partners, aims to promote a solidary Mali that rejects exclusion, values social cohesion, and resolutely works towards building territories of peace, resilience, and shared prosperity.
The choice of Sikasso and Ségou cities is not coincidental, as they play a vital role in the country's territorial balance and have demonstrated remarkable capacity for hosting and solidarity towards displaced populations over the years. The minister emphasized the need to strengthen this dynamic by supporting territorial transformation, improving living conditions, and consolidating social cohesion.
The representative of UN-Habitat, Mathias, stated that the objective is to restore hope to vulnerable persons affected by conflicts and climate crises. Together with Malian authorities, they will work to promote sustainable solutions in host cities by finding solutions to access to social services and equipment. The EU representative, Evi Ruso Dragoumis, noted that this financing will enable internally displaced persons to fully participate in the life of host communities.
The project provides for investments in infrastructure, including roads and drainage networks in informal neighborhoods where displaced persons live. It also includes the creation of green, lit, and secured public spaces to strengthen social cohesion and improve living conditions. Some plots of land have been identified for the construction of social housing for internally displaced persons.
According to the minister, every action undertaken must contribute to strengthening the resilience of populations, promoting inclusion, and preventing vulnerability factors that could fragilize communities. The project has already recorded some progress, including improved access to drinking water and energy in the intervention areas of the targeted cities.
The project aims to provide sustainable solutions to forced displacement, promote social cohesion, and improve living conditions for displaced persons and host communities in Sikasso and Ségou regions. Key stakeholders have expressed their commitment to supporting the implementation of this initiative, which is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of thousands of people.
Key points
- The European Union has provided €4,089 billion to support a project aimed at providing sustainable solutions to forced displacement in Mali's Sikasso and Ségou regions.
