Mali's CMDT Launches 2026-2027 Cotton Campaign in Kita

The Compagnie malienne pour le développement des textiles (CMDT) has started its 2026-2027 cotton campaign in Kita, Mali. Dr. Kouloumégué Dembélé, CMDT's President-Director General, led a delegation to the region from November 2 to 4, 2026. The team visited various sites, including the CMDT factory in Kita, where the first bale of 237 kg of cotton fiber was produced, marking the beginning of the ginning process.

During the visit, Dr. Dembélé met with local stakeholders, including producers, transporters, and huiliers. They discussed concerns such as the availability of agricultural inputs, payment delays, and cotton seed collection and transportation. The CMDT President emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue and addressing the concerns raised. He also highlighted the company's efforts to adapt to climate-related challenges and improve the supply of fertilizers and phytosanitary products.

The CMDT delegation also visited the construction site of the Kokofata ginning plant. The project, which consists of five lots, aims to increase ginning capacity and reduce transportation distances for cotton seeds. Although the project has faced technical difficulties and security constraints, Dr. Dembélé announced that efforts are being made to resolve the issues and resume work soon.

In addition to the factory and construction site visits, the delegation met with local producers, including Aboudou Togola, a producer from the SCPC Toumoudala II cooperative. Dr. Dembélé praised Togola for following the technical itinerary and using organic fertilizer to improve soil water retention. He also addressed concerns about inputs, stating that preparations for the next campaign are underway, with existing stocks and a call for tender launched to give suppliers more time.

The CMDT President also met with the company's personnel, who raised concerns about agricultural encadrement mobility, industrial and logistical means, personnel needs, and working conditions. The workers expressed their willingness to contribute to the development of the Kita cotton basin. Dr. Dembélé identified several priorities, including improving payment speed for cotton receipts and strengthening trust among stakeholders.

The CMDT has emphasized the importance of quality throughout the cotton production process, from harvesting to transportation, storage, and ginning. The goal is to promote high-grade cotton and preserve Mali's reputation in the international market. The first bale of cotton produced in Kita marks the beginning of a period of sustained work for industrial and logistical teams.

The CMDT's 2026-2027 cotton campaign in Kita aims to build on the progress made in previous seasons. The company's efforts to engage with local stakeholders, address concerns, and prioritize quality are expected to contribute to a successful campaign. Key stakeholders, including government officials and representatives from the Confédération des sociétés coopératives des producteurs de coton, are working together to support the development of Mali's cotton sector.

Key points

• The CMDT has started its 2026-2027 cotton campaign in Kita, Mali, with a focus on quality and collaboration with local stakeholders.
• The company's President-Director General, Dr. Kouloumégué Dembélé, led a delegation to Kita to engage with stakeholders and address concerns.
• The CMDT aims to promote high-grade cotton and preserve Mali's reputation in the international market.