Opportunities and Challenges of Green Entrepreneurship in Mali: Analysis of Promising Sectors and Encountered Obstacle[Opportunités et défis de l'entrepreneuriat vert au Mali : Analyse des secteurs porteurs et des obstacles rencontrés]

Green economy emerges as a significant response to Mali's environmental and socio-economic challenges such as population growth, poverty, and conflicts. Green entrepreneurship is recognized as a major lever to foster sustainable development and combat climate change. A mixed-method study, qualitative and quantitative, was conducted to assess its opportunities and challenges. Qualitative analysis employed documentary methods and word clouds, while the quantitative approach surveyed 83 establishments, revealing that over 70% of businesses focus on agribusiness and agri-food. These sectors also account for the majority of green jobs, underscoring the importance of economic growth in creating sustainable employment. However, green entrepreneurship actors identified several obstacles such as lack of training, support, and financing, as well as difficulties in product marketing. Recommendations were made to enhance capacities, intensify green entrepreneurship training, raise awareness of the green economy, and establish incubators to support entrepreneurs. Harmonizing public policies and financing green initiatives are also deemed essential to foster local skills development and combat climate change. This study highlights the potential of the green economy, particularly in agricultural and agri-food sectors, and underscores the need for collaboration among government, entrepreneurs, and development partners to fully exploit green entrepreneurship opportunities.