Dataset on Smart-Valleys and integrated rice-fish in Mali

This dataset presents data collected in the framework of the validation of the Smart-Valleys approach and integrated rice-fish system in Mali as part of the implementation of the AICCRA-Mali project. Data were collected in two inland valleys (Loutana and Fingolo-Ganadougou) of the region of Sikasso. Each inland valley was subdivided into two sections: one section was developed with the Smart-Valleys approach, and the second section was left undeveloped as used by farmers. In each section of each inland valley, four farmers’ fields were selected, and data were collected on rice yield, production costs, and income (difference between gross revenue and production costs). The data analyses showed that rice yield increased from 1.6 t/ha on farmers’ fields to 2.8 t/ha on Smart-Valleys sites (+75%), and farmers’ income increased from 104 on farmers’ fields to 249 USD/ha on Smart-Valleys sites (+139%). Field demonstrations were established to evaluate the performance of integrated rice-fish systems in the regions of Selingue and Niono. Data were collected on rice yield, production costs, and income in integrated rice–tilapia fields, and adjacent farmers’ fields where only rice was cultivated. The data analyzed showed that integrated rice-tilapia increased farmers’ income by 2005 – 2377 USD/ha compared to only rice cultivation. The benefit-cost ratio was increased from 0.6 – 0.8 in sole rice fields to 1.5 – 1.6 in integrated rice–tilapia fields. The data presented in this dataset can be used in metanalysis, and policy decision-making to promote the integrated rice fish in Africa.