In the heart of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, the 16th general assembly of the Support Association for the Village of Forgho in northern Mali took place recently. The gathering brought together dedicated members committed to sustaining long-standing solidarity with communities in Forgho and Bamako.

Marie-Jo Mennelet, the association’s president, opened the session by addressing the pressing challenges facing Mali today. With a heavy heart, she described a country grappling with worsening conditions: escalating jihadist attacks, severe shortages, disrupted water and electricity supplies, soaring prices, and relentless heat waves. These obstacles have made daily life increasingly difficult for countless families.

Despite the adversity, the association remains unwavering in its commitment to its partners in Forgho and Bamako. Marie-Jo Mennelet highlighted a glimmer of hope: the schools in Forgho and Kotchekaraï remain operational, a rarity in many regions across northern and central Mali. While the association did not initiate new sponsorships this year, existing ones continue to thrive, supported by the generosity of its members and donors.

The financial aid has made a tangible difference, funding essential items such as school supplies for the new academic year, meal programs, exam fees for the Diplôme d’Études Fondamentales (DEF), medical supplies, seeds for agriculture, and critical infrastructure repairs in schools and villages. Although fundraising events like concerts and theater performances were limited, the association successfully gathered donations to sustain its operations.

The financial report reflected resilience and efficiency. Revenue primarily came from donations, memberships, and sponsorships, while expenditures were prioritized for educational support, healthcare, agricultural initiatives, and assistance to the orphanage in Bamako. The assembly concluded with the traditional gathering, fostering camaraderie and shared determination to overcome the challenges ahead.