Key skills and expertise

With 38 years of experience, the expert specializes in public sector governance, project management, and socio-economic research. Key skills include decentralization, local governance, project planning, and evaluation. Leadership roles have included directing projects for USAID, UNICEF, and other organizations, with significant contributions in capacity building and institutional development. As Director at CEPROCIDE, responsibilities included managing local and international initiatives, leading to advancements in governance and education. Leadership in coordinating large-scale evaluations and developing strategic partnerships has significantly enhanced local governance structures and educational systems in Mali.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with international donors such as USAID, UNICEF, and the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. Involvement includes project implementation, technical assistance, evaluations, and capacity building in governance, education, and local development. Work spans national and regional projects in Mali, focusing on strengthening local governance and educational systems. Projects have been conducted in regions including Bamako, Sikasso, Mopti, and Ségou, contributing to significant socio-economic and educational advancements.

Sectors and geographic focus

Worked across sectors including public sector governance, project management, and socio-economic research. Previously held roles such as Director and Consultant, focusing on decentralization, local governance, and educational program evaluations. Interdisciplinary expertise includes capacity building and institutional development, with a geographic scope primarily in Mali and other West African countries. Responsibilities have consistently emphasized the integration of governance and development initiatives to enhance regional growth and socio-economic outcomes. Extensive experience in Mali includes significant involvement in local governance and regional development issues, with work spanning regions like Bamako, Sikasso, Mopti, Ségou, and Gao. Internationally, participation in projects and missions in Liberia, Nigeria, Ghana, and Uganda, including election observation and development initiatives, has provided a deep understanding of cultural dynamics and governance challenges in West Africa.

Languages and education

Bringing fluency in French and English, with proficiency in Bambara, these language skills have been utilized extensively in international and local projects, facilitating communication in multilingual teams and contributing to effective project management and governance initiatives. Fluency in French and English has been instrumental in executing roles that require interaction with diverse stakeholders and in conducting socio-economic research across Mali and other regions. The educational background includes a Doctorate in Economic Geography (2017-2020) and a Diplôme d’Etude Approfondie (DEA) in Economic Geography (2012-2014) from the Institut Supérieur de Formation et de Recherche Appliquée (ISFRA) in Mali. Additionally, a Maîtrise in History and Geography was obtained from the Ecole Normale Supérieure de Bamako (1984-1987), along with a Baccalauréat in Humanities from Lycée Dougoukolo Konaré (1980-1982).