Villefranche-de-Rouergue association keeps Mali aid flowing amid crisis

At the meeting’s start, president Marie‑Jo Mennelet emotionally shared troubling updates from Mali: “I don’t have very good news from the country, which is living through days that are even harder than before.” Jihadist attacks, severe shortages, frequent water and power cuts, soaring prices, and extreme heat now make daily life extremely difficult for local communities.

Nevertheless, the association maintains strong connections with its partners in Forgho and Bamako, responding faithfully and solidarity to their most urgent needs. In her moral report, Mennelet highlighted that schools in Forgho and Kotchekaraï remain open, a rare exception in northern and central Mali where many educational institutions have been forced to close. Although no new sponsorships were initiated this year, ongoing sponsorship programs continue thanks to the generosity of members and donors.

Financial assistance provided this year covered school supplies for the new term, the canteen meal program, DEF examination fees, as well as medicines, seeds, and various repair works at schools and within the villages.

While the association organised few public events this season, it benefited from donations collected during concerts and theatre performances held in support of the cause.

The financial statement remains positive: income came mainly from donations, membership fees, and sponsorships. Expenditure prioritised school aid, medicines, seeds, the orphanage in Bamako, and various one‑off supports for families and teachers.

After the unanimous approval of both the moral and financial reports, plus the renewal of board members, the assembly closed with the traditional friendly drink, fostering convivial exchanges among participants.