As we wrote about a week or so ago, COVID-19 was slow to be confirmed in Mali. However, Mali reported their first 2 confirmed cases of COVID-19 last Wednesday, and today (Monday) the WHO places the total number of confirmed cases at 18. We are heartbroken and worried for everyone in Mali. Like you, we are all figuring out the best ways to move through this new reality. Our first concern is for our students, their families, and our dedicated Malian staff. Although we took early steps to make sure we limited the risk of spreading the virus into our partner villages, we are thinking fast on our feet about how we can still best serve our students and villages over the long haul. As you might imagine, online learning is not an option in rural Malian villages! The government closed schools for 3 weeks, and we expect it to be longer by the time all is said and done, so we need to get creative….fast.
Volunteer Spotlight: Youth Ambassador Adjo!
Our Youth Ambassador project is a great way for high school students to help Mali Rising’s youth while gaining leadership skills and fostering an international understanding. I recently interviewed one of our Youth Ambassadors, Adjo, by email. She is a dedicated and enthusiastic volunteer and was excited to share her experience with you.
Resources for Learning While Staying Home
Like you, I am adjusting to our new reality here at Mali Rising’s U.S. office (read: my house). Because we want to contribute in our own small way, we are working on a web page with fun learning resources for both adults and children wanting to use our time at home to learn and grow. It will take a few days to get that resource list up and running, so we thought we would share some initial stay-at-home resources here to keep you going
Weaving a Life in Mali
In Mali there are a wide variety of craft activities that many people live on in Mali and makes the country proud. These jobs seem to be disappearing in Mali because of modernization. I would like to talk to you about a traditional activity that still exists in Mali, especially in certain remote places in the country. The craft I am thinking of is weaving. Some Malians think it is very useful and many make a good living thanks to this profession.
A Virtual Event: Talk With Hindaty & Learn About Girls' Education in Mali
Feeling cooped up at home as we all try to reduce exposure to the coronavirus? You are not alone! To help with the stir-craziness, we are developing some causal, fun online options for connection and learning. So, join us via video link on Sunday, March 29 for a fun chat with our wonderful Girls’ Project Coordinator, Hindaty Traore. This is a great way to learn more about the importance of girls’ education and our great Girls’ Project without leaving the comfort of your home!
Twin Brothers Drive Each Other to Achieve
Mali Rising & Covid-19
One Week Until the Underwear Party!
Travelogue: Days 9 & 10 -- Getting to Know a Potential Partner Village & Road Tripping
Girls Explore Healthy Choices
The choices we make for ourselves and for others can have a big impact on our lives. We need to know the choices to make so that we and our loved ones stay healthy and safe. Often in our small villages in Mali we don't think much about these choices. But by learning from each other, we can see the many ways we can help each other and what we can do to improve our health and lifestyle.
