The UNESCO office in Mali took part in the official kick-off ceremony for the 27th edition of the Environment Fortnight, held in Bamako on Saturday, 6 June 2026. The organisation’s delegation was led by its representative, Mr Ali Mohamed Sinane.

The opening ceremony was chaired by the Minister of State, Minister of Economy and Finance, Mr Alousséni Sanou, who stood in for the Prime Minister and Head of Government. The event brought together several government members, the environment ministers from the AES Confederation states (Burkina Faso and Niger), along with representatives from national institutions, technical and financial partners, civil society, the private sector, and the media.

This 27th edition aims to unify national initiatives in order to strengthen community awareness regarding the conservation of natural resources and the advancement of sustainable environmental practices.

Scheduled from 5 to 15 June 2026, the fortnight will centre on two main themes:

• “The climate crisis and solutions for a safer, more resilient, and more sustainable future,” linked to World Environment Day;

• “Pastures: recognise, respect, restore,” in reference to the International Day against Desertification and Drought.

By participating, UNESCO reaffirms its commitment alongside the Government of Mali to enhance awareness, foster good environmental practices, and support the implementation of concrete actions for sustainable and resilient development.