This report presents the results of a study conducted in 2011 and 2012 by the Institute of Rural Economy (IER) of Mali, with the support of the Centre for International Cooperation in Agronomic Research for Development (CIRAD - France) within the framework of Agricultural Sector Support Program in Mali (PASAM), with funding from the Danish Cooperation in the context of the development of a new rural development program. The aim was to provide policy makers and rural development actors, elements for a better knowledge and understanding of the situation and operation of family farms. Surveys were conducted among 312 family farms randomly selected in 12 villages selected to represent the agro-economic diversity of the two Cercles. The information collected is for the year 2010. The report presents the results obtained from simple data processing. Family farms are characterized by their assets and activities system. Agricultural performance is analyzed. The total income including both collective and individual income, and farm and non-farm income, used to assess the overall performance of family farms. The activities are very diversified but income depends largely of the agricultural component. Poverty is widespread and investment capacity is non-existent for most farms. Due to its importance, agriculture remains the main driver of development. Improving agricultural productivity requires sustainable improvement of productive capacity by allowing farms to make investments but also to decrease the risks these operations are subject to both the level of production and marketing.
