The Director-General of the Swiss Directorate of Development and Cooperation (DDC), Patricia Danzi, led a high-level delegation to Timbuktu, Mali, on Wednesday. This visit is part of the ongoing partnership between Mali and Switzerland, which began in 1977 and is set to continue through the 2026-2029 cooperation program. The visit aimed to engage with local populations, understand their needs, and explore opportunities for sustainable development.
Upon arrival, Danzi and her delegation were welcomed by local authorities, including the Economic and Financial Affairs Advisor, the Acting Head of the Regional Council, and the President of the Special Delegation of the Municipality. The delegation then paid a courtesy visit to Governor Bakoun Kanté, followed by a meeting with various stakeholders, including civil society representatives. A presentation by the Regional Council highlighted Switzerland's achievements in the region, including improved access to clean water, support for basic social services, humanitarian aid, and governance.
Governor Kanté emphasized the region's needs, citing the importance of a bridge over the Niger River at Koriomé, agricultural equipment, additional healthcare centers, and schools. The delegation then visited the Grand Market's slaughterhouse, the bus station, and the PROTECT women's center, where they were greeted with traditional music and dance. These visits showcased the positive impact of Swiss-funded projects on the local community.
Danzi and her delegation also visited the Djingareyber Mosque and the Ahmed Baba Institute of Higher Islamic Studies and Research, which houses over 40,000 manuscripts. Beneficiaries of Swiss-funded projects expressed their satisfaction with the initiatives, which have improved their living conditions. They encouraged the DDC to continue and diversify its projects in the region.
The visit concluded with an interview with local press, where Danzi expressed her satisfaction with the progress made and praised the excellent partnership between Mali and Switzerland. The DDC Director-General highlighted the importance of investing in opportunities that benefit local populations and promote sustainable development.
The partnership between Mali and Switzerland focuses on addressing the needs of local populations and promoting sustainable development. The 2026-2029 cooperation program aims to build on previous achievements and explore new opportunities for collaboration. Switzerland's support has had a positive impact on the region, particularly in areas such as access to clean water, healthcare, and education.
The visit by Danzi and her delegation demonstrates the commitment of Switzerland to its partnership with Mali and its desire to continue supporting the country's development. The DDC's efforts to engage with local populations and promote sustainable development align with the needs and priorities of the region. Key projects supported by Switzerland in Mali include improved access to clean water, support for basic social services, and humanitarian aid.
Key points
- The visit by Patricia Danzi and her delegation aimed to strengthen the partnership between Switzerland and Mali and assess development projects in Timbuktu.
- Switzerland's support has had a positive impact on the region, particularly in areas such as access to clean water, healthcare, and education.
- The 2026-2029 cooperation program aims to build on previous achievements and explore new opportunities for collaboration between Mali and Switzerland.
