Villefranche-de-Rouergue association continues Mali support despite challenges

The 16th general assembly of the Association de soutien au village de Forgho in northern Mali recently took place.

At the start of the meeting, president Marie-Jo Mennelet emotionally shared troubling news from Mali: “I don’t have very good news from the country, which is experiencing even harder days than before.” Jihadist attacks, shortages, water and electricity cuts, rising prices, and extreme heat are making daily life particularly harsh for local populations.

Despite this difficult context, the association maintains a strong bond with its friends in Forgho and Bamako and continues to respond to their needs with loyalty and solidarity. In her activity report, Mennelet noted that schools in Forgho and Kotchekaraï remain open, unlike many in northern and central Mali. While no new sponsorships were started this year, ongoing ones continue thanks to the generosity of members and donors.

Aid provided has funded school supplies for the start of the term, the canteen, DEF exams, as well as medicines, seeds, and various works in schools and villages. Although few events could be organised this year, the association benefited from donations collected during concerts and theatre performances.

The financial report remains positive, with income coming mainly from donations, memberships, and sponsorships. Expenditures were prioritised for school aid, medicines, seeds, an orphanage in Bamako, and various one-off support for families and teachers. After unanimous adoption of both reports and renewal of board members, the general assembly ended with the traditional friendship drink and convivial exchanges.