Mali is one of the poorest nations in the world and most impacted by desertification along with Niger. Desertification is the process of fertile land turning to desert due to climate change, deforestation, and overexploitation of resources. It causes environmental issues like increased flooding and soil salinization as well as economic impacts like reduced incomes and migration. The author is part of a team implementing a project in Mali to plant trees, improve wells, use composting to boost soil fertility, and improve food drying to fight desertification and its effects on communities along the Niger River, Mali's key water source. The team is raising funds for the project and additional funds will be used on a community identified initiative.