Mahamadou Dicko

Program Manager , Mali

Bamako, Mali

I am an experienced Program Manager with over a decade of expertise in leading multi-sectoral projects focused on sustainable development, social inclusion, and climate resilience. Passionate about empowering vulnerable communities, I excel in program design, stakeholder engagement, and strategic partnerships, driving impactful change aligned with global development goals.

Contact Mahamadou Dicko
Area of Expertise:
  • Environment, Climate, Energy, Water, Sanitation
  • Fundraising, Business Development, Grants Writer
  • Government, Governance, Reforms
Professional Experience:

I am an experienced program coordinator with over a decade of expertise in designing and managing multi-sectoral initiatives in humanitarian and development contexts. My career includes overseeing programs focused on women and youth empowerment, climate resilience, and sustainable development. I have successfully managed multi-million USD funds annually from international donors such as Helvetas, the UNDP, and Rise Against Hunger, ensuring compliance, impact, and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Currently, as Program Coordinator at AMEDD, I lead the management of over 100 staff across multiple regions in Mali, ensuring effective planning, implementation, and evaluation of complex programs. I have spearheaded innovative approaches to community-driven development, integrating climate-smart agricultural practices, inclusive governance, and economic empowerment initiatives. I am highly skilled in managing large budgets, developing robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and fostering strategic partnerships with government agencies, donors, and grassroots organizations.

Previously, as a Program Officer at AMEDD, I coordinated field activities, facilitated capacity-building workshops, and supported local partners in implementing sustainable practices. This role deepened my expertise in stakeholder engagement, team leadership, and navigating multi-stakeholder collaborations to address systemic challenges. Earlier in my career, as a Research Assistant with ICRISAT, I contributed to global climate adaptation initiatives, focusing on natural resource management and food security in vulnerable regions.

My leadership style emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and results-driven execution. I excel at mobilizing diverse teams, fostering inclusive participation, and navigating complex environments to deliver high-quality outcomes. My ability to balance strategic planning with operational excellence ensures that programs are not only impactful but also sustainable in the long term.

I am passionate about creating scalable solutions to address Africa's most pressing challenges, particularly those related to resilience, equity, and inclusive development. With extensive experience in managing large teams and multi-million-dollar projects, I am well-equipped to drive transformative change and deliver measurable impact.

Education:

I hold a Master’s degree in Climate Change and Human Security from the West African Science Service Center on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL), in partnership with the University of Lomé, Togo. This advanced program equipped me with a deep understanding of climate adaptation strategies, resilience-building frameworks, and sustainable development approaches, particularly in vulnerable communities. My academic focus on the intersection of environmental challenges and human security has been instrumental in shaping my professional expertise in program design and implementation.

Prior to this, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Bamako, Mali, where I developed a strong foundation in social dynamics, cultural systems, and inclusive approaches to community development. This training sharpened my ability to work effectively with diverse populations, integrating local knowledge and cultural nuances into sustainable solutions.

Throughout my academic journey, I actively engaged in research and fieldwork, applying theoretical insights to practical challenges. This hands-on experience, combined with my continuous professional development—such as certifications in project management, advocacy, and stakeholder facilitation—has made me a versatile and results-oriented professional. My education not only reflects my commitment to addressing complex global challenges but also underscores my ability to thrive in dynamic, cross-cultural, and interdisciplinary environments.

Affiliations and Achievements:

I have been fortunate to build a career that goes beyond program management, extending into research, capacity building, and community-driven initiatives aimed at creating lasting impact. My other affiliations and achievements reflect my commitment to sustainable development, social innovation, and the empowerment of communities.

One of my key achievements is founding CRESSA Mali (Centre de Recherche sur l'Écologie et les Sociétés au Sahel) in 2022. This organization was established to bridge the gap between research and practical development interventions in Mali and the Sahel region. At CRESSA, we focus on sustainable development through applied research, public-private partnerships, and policy advocacy. Our programs integrate agroecology, renewable energy, and community-based resource management to address the pressing challenges of climate change and socio-economic vulnerabilities in the Sahel. This initiative embodies my belief in leveraging science and collaboration to drive meaningful change.

In addition, I have been actively involved in fostering global connections and capacity building through my role in Holland Alumni Mali, a network of professionals trained in the Netherlands. As a member of this vibrant community, I have contributed to knowledge exchange and the dissemination of best practices in development, governance, and education. This platform has also allowed me to mentor emerging professionals and advocate for innovative solutions tailored to the African context.

Beyond these affiliations, I have consistently engaged in capacity-building initiatives and partnerships that strengthen local institutions and empower marginalized groups. Over the years, I have led training sessions and workshops focused on leadership, project management, and sustainable practices, particularly targeting women and youth. My contributions have helped shape programs that promote inclusive governance, enhance food security, and increase resilience to climate change in vulnerable communities.

I am particularly proud of my work in fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships, where I have collaborated with government agencies, international donors, and community organizations to design and implement impactful programs. Through these efforts, I have contributed to creating platforms for dialogue, resource mobilization, and the scaling of innovative solutions across Mali and the Sahel region.

These experiences and achievements demonstrate my deep commitment to building resilient communities, driving inclusive development, and fostering collaborative action to address the systemic challenges faced by the Sahel and beyond.

Available for:

  • Consulting assignments
  • Job opportunities
  • Internships / Fellowships
  • Being headhunted – make me an

Years of Experience:

10-15 years

Highest Qualification:

Masters

Languages:

English, French, French

Nationality:

Mali

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