Based on the COSOP targeting strategy, FIER II will intervene in 8 regions of Mali. First, it will intervene in the southern regions of the country where population densities are above the national average and where insecurity problems are less intense, with a focus on areas with high levels of poverty. These are the regions of Koulikoro, Sikasso, Kayes and Ségou, with the 12 circles selected, pre-identified villages, and a first list of 2,000 young people whose projects are ready or waiting for funding because they were accompanied by FIER. Regions covered during the implementation of FIER will be referred to as areas of concentration. The extension areas will consist of production basins in the regions of Mopti, Gao, Timbuktu and Kidal. The following criteria will determine the choice of target circles and villages: (1) security constraints; (2) the level of poverty and food and nutritional vulnerability; (3) agroecological potential (designable sites); (4) market opportunities; (5) favourable local conditions for the training and integration of young people; (6) TB engagement; and (7) potential for collaboration with other stakeholders active in the area.