Mali is home to many traditions, especially in rural areas. Some of the traditions are disappearing in bigger towns but they live on in villages. Visiting a village in Mali allows people from other countries to learn many of these traditions, but even Malians who have lived in big towns for long time may be reminded of many traditions. For example, it is very common to see large, rustic public benches in villages while visiting.
Girls Groups Meet Under the Mango Trees
By Hindaty Traore, Girls Project Manager
In October, I was very happy to finally head back to the villages to meet with the girls from the Girls' Project after a long time because of the pandemic. Although I stayed in touch with the girls via the phone and radio, nothing is as much fun and as satisfying as laughing in person with the girls!
The meetings with our girls will be different this year because of the pandemic. To continue to do our activities safely with the girls, instead of meeting in the classrooms we spread out mats under a tree in the schoolyard. Each of the girls wears her mask, provided by Mali Rising. Everyone must disinfect their hands before the meeting and were made with gestures, rather than hugs.
Although I wondered how the rules would work, the girls sat down respecting the distancing measures and were just happy to be together. They were enthusiastic because it is a first time for them to return to our discussions and fun.
In fact, I noticed they were more relaxed, participatory, and focused as we met under the trees. One girl from Zambougou, Doussouba Samaké , said she loves meeting outside - she feels is in a palace on her mat under the trees and she is the queen so it feels good to take outdoor lessons. She wishes that all subjects could be taught like this! She said she would be the top of the class if she could learn under the trees (laughs).
Safety First at Ross and Marilou Moser Middle School
Ross and Marilou Moser Middle School has been changed by the Covid-19 pandemic just like all schools in Mali. Parents and students have been very worried about their village’s future in terms of education and health. School have been closed for months and students were concerned and depressed. When the government decided to reopen schools, the whole village was thrilled to see their kids back in school even though the pandemic was not still over. We are working to help students feel and be safe by setting up a health club so students are more aware of the virus and how to protect themselves and their families.
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