Mali/Launch ceremony for the construction of the ginning plant in Kokofata: A CMDT strategic project to increase cotton production capacity
On Sunday, December 17, 2023, the groundbreaking ceremony for the ginning plant took place in Kokofata under the High Patronage of the Transitional President. Chaired by Colonel Abdoulaye Maïga, Minister of State, Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralization, and Government Spokesperson, the event brought together various government officials and partners of The Malian Textile Development Company (CMDT).
With a total investment exceeding 22 billion CFA francs, Malian Development Bank (BDM SA) mobilized 14 billion CFA francs, supplemented by CMDT’s equity.
The construction, scheduled over 18 months, involves the collaboration of several local and international companies, symbolizing a diverse alliance for this significant project.
Initiated by the Malian Textile Development Company (CMDT), this new plant aims to increase its ginning capacity in the West Zone.
Strategically located in Kokofata, it will facilitate the processing of nearly 50 thousand tons of cotton annually, reducing the need to transport production to other sites such as Bamako and Ouélessébougou. The chosen location will also have a positive impact on the local economy.
By creating approximately 250 direct jobs and 1000 indirect jobs, this ambitious infrastructure is expected to double the ginning capacity of CMDT’s western subsidiary from 45,000 to 90,000 tons, an increase of 350 tons per day.
These developments align with the aspirations of local cotton producers aiming to increase their production and reduce transportation costs.
Lassine Dembélé, Minister of Agriculture, highlighted CMDT’s goal to produce 800,000 tons of seed cotton, surpassing the current ginning capacity of 600,000 tons.
Colonel Abdoulaye Maïga emphasized that this initiative aligns with President Assimi Goïta’s vision focused on development, diplomacy, and defense. He also announced the groundbreaking for a military camp in the region, emphasizing both economic and security commitments.
Present at the ceremony, Colonel Sadio Camara urged the people of Kokofata to take care of this plant, highlighting its crucial role in local economic stimulation.
This new ginning plant represents a significant advancement for CMDT and the Kita region, paving the way for economic potential and sustainable growth in the cotton sector.
Titi KEITA
