The Secretary General of the Confederation of Cotton Producers' Cooperative Societies at the Agricultural Insurance Workshop

Prepared by - Souleymane Sangaré - Secretary General of the Confederation of Cotton Producers’ Cooperative Societies

Agricultural insurance is of paramount importance for the future of our sector. Agricultural insurance as a means of combating vulnerabilities in our production chain is more relevant than ever. Indeed, we are facing challenges that weaken climate cotton producers and the entire agricultural sector.

This year, agriculture, particularly cotton, is subject to unpredictable climatic hazards, floods, which affect not only production but also food security and the income of rural families. Around 591 cases of flooding were recorded in Mali from August 1, 2024, to September 27, 2024, according to the National Coordination of Crisis and Disaster Management. This vulnerable situation exposes our producers to economic difficulties that can. Difficulties that can, unfortunately, contribute to unacceptable practices such as child labour.

Index-based agricultural insurance is an innovative and effective response. By protecting producers against losses due to floods and other climatic risks, this mechanism allows farmers to maintain financial stability. This security can prevent the exploitation of children and encourage families to keep them in school, where they can focus on their future.

It is essential to remember that child labour cannot be tolerated in any form. We, as a confederation, are committed to promoting sustainable and ethical agriculture, where every child can enjoy their right to education and a healthy childhood. Cotton farmers, when faced with economic uncertainties, may sometimes be tempted to use child labour, not by choice, but by necessity. This is why it is urgent to provide sustainable solutions that reduce the vulnerability of our farmers.

The initiative to combat child labour through the establishment of agricultural insurance is good for cotton farmers. This approach could significantly contribute to reducing the economic dependence of families on child labour by providing them with financial protection against agricultural risks, such as poor harvests and yield losses.

Thanks to the support of the International Labour Organization (ILO) through the ACCEL Africa project, this insurance could enable families to secure their income, including the need to employ children to compensate for financial losses. It would also provide cotton producers with greater economic stability and encourage a more ethical and child-friendly work culture.