Purpose: The study examines the role of strategic leadership in enhancing organizational adaptability in Malian SMEs. It specifically investigated how leaders make decisions that promote flexibility and the strategies and practices they adopt to respond effectively to changing business environments.

Methodology/Design: A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews with 15 SME leaders purposively selected from diverse sectors in Mali. Data were analyzed thematically, and trustworthiness was ensured through member checking, peer debriefing, and audit trails.

Findings: Results revealed that leaders engage in participative decision-making, proactive risk assessment, and a balance of formal and informal influences to enhance adaptability. Additionally, SMEs adopt flexible operational practices, market diversification, innovation, and leverage social and cultural knowledge to respond to dynamic business environments. These practices align with Transformational and Contingency Leadership theories, highlighting the importance of adapting leadership and strategies to situational demands.

Implications: The study provides guidance for SME leaders, policymakers, and development agencies on fostering leadership practices that improve adaptability, resilience, and competitiveness. Capacity-building programs and context-sensitive strategies are recommended to strengthen SME performance in uncertain business environments.