For many farmers in the Didiéni zone, protecting grain after harvest can be as challenging as producing it. Insect infestations, moisture damage, and inadequate storage conditions often reduce household food supplies and limit income opportunities. To address these challenges, Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) Mali introduced hermetic storage technologies through practical demonstrations of airtight tanks and PICS bags for storing and conserving maize and sorghum.

Practical session where farmers demonstrate the use of hermetic barrels for maize storage, placing grains inside for safe conservation.

Farmers were able to observe the performance of grain stored under real conditions. During the demonstrations, one sorghum sample that had been infested with insects at the time of storage was found to be completely free of live insects upon opening, demonstrating the technology’s effectiveness. Participants also noted the absence of pest attacks or moisture-related damage across all the improved storage units.

Farmers expressed strong confidence in technology. Sanaba Diarra, a cowpea producer, noted the ability to store grains safely without chemical treatment, improving both household food security and income stability. 

The Village Chief highlighted that improved storage practices have enabled farmers to sell significant quantities of produce under better conditions, including 2 tons of cowpea, 10 tons of maize, and 5 tons of sorghum.

As a result of these demonstrations, adoption of hermetic storage solutions has increased from 46% in 2024 to approximately 53% in 2025 among producers in target PHTCs. Farmers explained that they can now store their harvest for up to six months, reduce losses caused by pests and humidity, and sell during periods when market prices are more favorable.

The NSA TC demonstrates the practical use of hermetic storage tools, starting with plastic hermetic bags.

Beyond reducing post-harvest losses, the initiative has strengthened farmers’ resilience and bargaining power. Households reported improved year-round food availability and reduced reliance on distress sales immediately after harvest.

This experience demonstrates how simple, locally adoptable technologies can transform post-harvest management, improve income stability, and strengthen food security in rural communities. The success in Didiéni highlights the importance of scaling up hermetic storage solutions across similar farming systems in Mali and beyond.