Access to health care and availability of family planning services continues to improve, but the population growth rate and mortality figures are still distressingly high. The GRM's National ten-year Health Plan for improved health delivery has now been operating for just two years, with demonstrated improvement in the management of health services resources. Cattle offtake has better than doubled since 1996. The democratic governance activity is helping over one thousand community organizations advocate for improved policies and infrastructure. By facilitating the use of information resources, e.g. the Internet and community radio stations, the information and communication activity is increasing Malian access to development and business-related information.
All activities are ahead of performance targets.
Adoption of improved agricultural practices grew, with 1,900 farmers adopting better farming and forestation practices in 2000. In 1999, communal elections were held throughout Mali for the first time ever. Newly elected local leaders are assuming decision-making responsibilities in partnership with citizens, community associations and civic action groups. Various activities for strengthening the capacity of local organizations to operate effectively for the benefit of their members continues to be the central focus of the Democratic Governance Objective. Over 1,000 community organizations were assisted and the majority operates effectively and democratically.