The 16th general assembly of the Support Association for the village of Forgho in northern Mali has just concluded, highlighting both challenges and resilience.
The gathering in Mali’s northern regions painted a stark picture. Marie-Jo Mennelet, president of the Support Association for Forgho, opened the session with a heavy heart, sharing “the situation in the country has worsened, with jihadist threats, shortages, and extreme heat making daily life unbearable.”
Yet, against all odds, the association remains steadfast in its mission. Despite the crisis, schools in Forgho and Kotchekaraï remain operational, a rare beacon of hope in a region where many institutions have shut down. While no new sponsorships were secured this year, existing ones continue to provide vital support thanks to the generosity of donors.
The funds raised have made a tangible difference: from school supplies and meal programs to medical aid, seeds for farmers, and infrastructure repairs in villages. Though public events were limited, donations from concerts and theater performances still contributed to the cause.
The financial report reflected this resilience, with income from donations, memberships, and sponsorships covering essential needs. Priority was given to education, healthcare, agriculture, and support for Bamako’s orphanage, as well as emergency assistance for families and teachers.
The assembly concluded on a hopeful note, with unanimous approval of the reports and the election of new board members. The event ended with a shared meal and heartfelt exchanges among members.
