Mali: report 2010

November 2010 :  Work on our new Reception Centre continues.  Everyone is working as hard as they can on this new building for the orphans.

Good news! The large scale distribution of impregnated mosquito nets to pregnant and breast-feeding women and children under the age of five, has reduced the incidence of malaria.

It is becoming much colder, especially at night.  Many children suffer through a lack of adequate covers and this results in many colds.  We are providing warm clothing where necessary.

Even though it is not as lavish as in previous years, Tabaski, the traditional sheep festival, is a happy moment for the children who receive bananas and sweets with their usual milk rations.

Insecurity in the region has reached such a point that the North no longer receives any revenue from tourism.  Investors in hotels and campsites in the area are beginning to despair.  Even the usually secure Dogon region has seen the withdrawal of all humanitarian workers and tourists.  The local economy in that area is under tremendous threat.

December 2010  :  It is so cold that all the children have been given 2 or 3 outfits of clothes.

Thursday 23rd December is a day of celebration.  The children’s eyes sparkle with pleasure at the sight of bananas, sweets, biscuits and chocolate.  There are even garlands and baubles on a tree.  Hurrah for Christmas!

Fatoumata-Sofia our recovering baby is wonderful.  Koutoum looks after her very well and gives her all the love she needs to blossom.

A warm thank you to all who have shared this year with us through their support.

Sophie, her team and all the children wish you a very Happy New Year 2011.

> back

The building under construction



It is Christmas

Fatoumata-Sofia in the arms of Koutoum