The objective of the Project is to support the efforts of Mali in increasing access to modern energy services for its population through: (a) increasing energy supply to small and medium enterprises and health and education centers in rural and peri-urban areas; (b) promoting further community-based woodland management to reduce un-sustainable pressure on forest resources while simultaneously encouraging inter-fuel substitution and energy efficiency initiatives (USD13.47 million); and (c) strengthening of energy sector reform processes towards increased private sector participation in decentralized energy services delivery.

According to the project completion report, the targeted number of hectares under woodfuel management program (1,400,000) was partially reached at project closing with 1,142,033 hectares under sustainable management. The number of new wood energy markets operational with an end target of 500 was not reached at project closing with 282 operational markets. The targeted number of improved stoves purchased by households (a total of 1.29 million improved stoves had been distributed, above the 1.09 million target). It was stated that active and sustained participation of community leaders are needed for successful community-based woodfuel management initiatives.