Meeting Date: July 23, 2026
Location: International Conference Center of Bamako (CICB), Bamako, Mali
Baobab Learning Center Representative: Ms. Rebeka Dara

Building a Stronger Partnership for Mali’s Youth

On July 23, 2026, the Ministry of Youth and Sports convened representatives from associations, NGOs, and civil society organizations working in citizenship and civic engagement. The meeting aimed to establish a structured, sustainable,

and results-oriented partnership between the Government and civil society. Baobab Learning Center (BLC), represented by Ms. Rebeka Dara, participated actively.

Opening Ceremony

Participants registered beginning at 9:30 a.m. The official ceremony started at 10:27 a.m. with the arrival of the Minister and the performance of the Malian National Anthem. The Minister emphasized the critical role of civil society organizations in promoting citizenship, civic responsibility, patriotism, and national values among youth.

Objectives of the Meeting

• Establish an official collaboration framework.
• Promote structured and sustainable cooperation.
• Strengthen citizenship and civic responsibility.
• Improve coordination among organizations.
• Recognize NGOs as strategic partners in youth development.

Strategic Priorities

Priority areas include strengthening organizational capacity, promoting civic and moral education, encouraging patriotism and good governance, and implementing an active communication strategy to promote civic values, respect for national symbols, and awareness of national challenges.

Permanent Collaboration Framework

Participants agreed to establish a physical and virtual collaboration platform, create a national database of associations and NGOs, improve information sharing, and strengthen coordination of activities.

Coordination Schedule

Quarterly virtual meetings will take place on the first Thursday of each quarter, while an annual in-person meeting will be held every December.

Implementation Roadmap

July–September: Establish the collaboration platform and national directory.
October–December: Present first-phase achievements and evaluate progress.
Beginning immediately: Launch capacity-building activities and training programs.

Key Decisions

Formalize the Ministry–NGO partnership; establish a collaborative platform and national database; hold regular coordination meetings; strengthen institutional capacity; and promote transparency, cooperation, and effective coordination.

Baobab Learning Center

Baobab Learning Center remains committed to supporting civic education, responsible citizenship, youth leadership, and sustainable community development throughout Mali.

Looking Ahead

This meeting represents an important milestone in strengthening cooperation between the Government of Mali and civil society organizations, laying the foundation for stronger partnerships that will better serve Mali’s youth.