Mali : Budgetary constraints hamper ambitions of the National Industry Observatory for 2024

During the 7th ordinary session of its Board of Directors, held on March 21st, the National Industry Observatory (ONI) gathered its members under the chairmanship of the Secretary-General representing the supervisory ministry.

The main objective of this observatory is to promote industrial development through the conduct of in-depth studies and research. These works not only help evaluate existing programs but also formulate recommendations aimed at energizing the industrial sector.

However, the multidimensional crisis affecting the country has had a significant impact on public finances, leading to a reduction in budgets allocated to various structures, including the ONI. The Secretary-General of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Adama Yoro Sidibé, emphasized in his opening speech that this budgetary crisis has forced the observatory to lower its ambitions.

A concrete example of this budget constraint is the non-completion of a study planned for 2023 concerning the bread sector, due to insufficient funding. This illustration highlights the difficulties that the ONI faces in its work due to budgetary restrictions.

For the 2024 financial year, the budget forecast for the ONI amounts to 102.9 million CFA francs, a significant decrease compared to the previous year’s budget of 133.7 million CFA francs. This budget reduction could further limit the activities of the observatory, jeopardizing its ability to fully fulfill its mission of promoting industrial development.

In summary, the difficult financial situation facing the country is affecting the ONI, limiting its possibilities for action and endangering the achievement of its objectives. It is therefore crucial to find solutions to ensure that this observatory has the necessary resources to continue playing its vital role in the development of the national industry.

Sadia Nyaoré