The Malian fertiliser value chain post-subsidy: an analysis of its structure and performance. Issue 2 (17th February 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Theriault, Veronique; Smale, Melinda; Assima, Amidou
• Is Part Of: Development in practice. Volume 28:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 242
• Page End: 256
• Publication Date: 2018-02-17
• Subjects: Environment (built and natural) – Agriculture -- Governance and public policy -- Sub-Saharan Africa; Technical assistance -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Economic assistance -- Developing countries -- Periodicals; Developing countries -- Economic conditions -- Periodicals; 338.91091724
• DOI: 10.1080/09614524.2018.1421145
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0961-4524

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article examines the structure of the Malian fertiliser value chain and its performance in the context of the national subsidy programme, drawing on a review of the literature, farm household survey, and interviews with fertiliser suppliers. It finds that participants in the subsidy programme use more fertiliser and have significantly higher yields. The number of wholesalers and retailers has risen, but procurement remains concentrated. Poor fertiliser quality is a recurrent problem. The high cost of the programme raises questions regarding its sustainability. Mixed performance reflects the need for better monitoring and evaluation, and transparency in the programme.