Groupe Fabast SARL: An Agroecological Company Committed to a Sustainable Future

Amadou Alpha Ba, a 27-year-old Malian entrepreneur, is the driving force behind Groupe Fabast SARL, a green economy enterprise with a focus on agro-pastoral activities based on agroecological principles, located in Sanankoroba, Kati circle in the Koulikoro region. They embody hope and innovation in the Malian agricultural sector. Their company, centered around agroecology and the green economy, serves as a model for sustainability and environmental preservation. Through their determination, they overcome challenges and pave the way for healthier and more sustainable agriculture.

In a world facing growing environmental challenges, it is crucial to find sustainable solutions to ensure a better future. It is within this framework that Amadou Alpha Ba, a 27-year-old Malian entrepreneur, established Groupe Fabast SARL, a green economy enterprise with a focus on agro-pastoral activities based on agroecological principles. We had the opportunity to speak with Amadou Alpha Ba, affectionately known as "The Witness Farmer," to learn more about his company and its objectives.

Motivations behind the company's creation:

The idea behind Fabast Group was born out of a desire to promote agroecology in Mali. In collaboration with organizations such as Solidarité Permaculture and Kokoopeli, Amadou Alpha Ba and his team worked on the reproduction and popularization of open-pollinated and reproducible seeds. Building on these experiences, they decided to establish a farm school, FEABA, to provide training, conduct research, and promote agroecology. Recognizing the environmental challenges facing Malian agriculture, including the overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, environmental disregard, and consumer health concerns, they transformed the informal group into a green economy enterprise focused on agro-sylvopastoral activities based on agroecological principles.

The ecological impact of Groupe Fabast SARL:

The company makes a significant contribution to environmental preservation and the transition towards agroecology. The agriculture practiced by Fabast Group protects the environment by preserving biodiversity and minimizing the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. They employ practices such as composting, the use of manure and organic fertilizers, as well as the planting of erosion-resistant trees to combat erosion and desertification. By raising awareness about food sovereignty and promoting the preservation and multiplication of traditional seeds, Groupe Fabast SARL contributes to the preservation of local resources.

Amadou Alpha Ba emphasizes, "Our goal is to produce in a healthy manner while respecting the environment and consumer health. We aim to bring health back to the plate and reduce its reliance on pharmacies."

The social impact of the project:

Groupe Fabast SARL also seeks to have a positive social impact. By offering healthy products to consumers, the company contributes to improving food health. Additionally, by encouraging young people to engage in green agro-business, Groupe Fabast SARL creates employment opportunities and contributes to reducing the unemployment rate. The company also places emphasis on preserving traditional knowledge and works towards reducing the burdens associated with agricultural production.

Amadou Alpha Ba highlights, "We enable young people like us to have jobs, provide for their families, and even have decent housing. For us, success is defined by the ability to offer opportunities to others while providing ecological products to our consumers."

Challenges faced by the company:

Like any enterprise, Groupe Fabast SARL encounters several challenges. The lack of technical support, guidance, and financial assistance from government institutions is one of the main obstacles. Additionally, the high cost of essential inputs, rapid urbanization in production areas, unregulated markets, and competition present difficulties that the company faces.

However, Groupe Fabast SARL has overcome these challenges by expanding its service and training activities. They have also successfully tackled these obstacles through partnerships with organizations such as IMPACT Hub Bamako, FACEJ, AADK International, Kokopelli France, Solidarité Permaculture, and ABFT France, which have provided invaluable support.

Successes of the company:

It can boast of numerous achievements. They have established over 6 agricultural farms that generate an annual turnover of over 14,000,000 FCFA. Furthermore, the company has provided guidance to numerous young individuals through end-of-cycle internships. They have also contributed to the awareness and training of over 400 young people and women in agricultural entrepreneurship. Thanks to Fabast Group, many young individuals have found employment and been able to support their families. Moreover, the company offers ecological vegetables and fruits to consumers, contributing to a healthier diet for all.

Future projects :

Looking ahead, Groupe Fabast SARL has several projects in mind. Among them, they plan to establish a melon processing unit to add value to this crop and reduce post-harvest losses. Additionally, they intend to implement training programs for young people and women interested in green agro-business, following the fabastian concept.

Amadou Alpha Ba concludes by stating, "We will continue to develop alternatives that enable Malian youth to take charge of their lives through agricultural entrepreneurship and the valorization of local resources. We are determined to contribute to a sustainable future for our country and future generations."

With a clear vision and unwavering passion, Amadou Alpha Ba has transformed an idea into a tangible reality. Groupe Fabast SARL has become a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of inherent challenges in the agricultural sector. While navigating obstacles such as a lack of institutional support, competition, and financial constraints, they have found innovative solutions and forged strong partnerships to move forward.

The impact of the company extends far beyond the boundaries of the company itself. By providing employment opportunities to young individuals and promoting agricultural entrepreneurship, the company contributes to reducing unemployment and empowering youth and women in Mali economically. Additionally, the Group values traditional knowledge and preserves traditional agricultural practices, ensuring the intergenerational transmission of these valuable skills. Their agroecological model, focused on sustainability and consumer health, is a breath of fresh air in a world dominated by intensive agriculture.

In conclusion, Groupe Fabast SARL is more than just a company; it is a catalyst for change and an inspiring example for those aspiring to a sustainable agricultural future.

CONTACTS and LINKS :

Groupe Fabast SARL
Amadou Alpha Ba, Co-founder and President of Groupe Fabast SARL, Witness Farmer, Agroecological Advocate
groupefabast@gmail.com
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/amadoualpha.ba.39
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063781822677