ISSUE 7

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In many countries, girls are more likely to be aborted, abandoned, and neglected. They are fed less than boys and are less likely to attend or stay in school. Often they are forced to work and marry young. Establishing equal rights and opportunities for girls is one of the best guarantees for development. When women are valued and treated as well as men, communities are richer and healthier.

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Aissata has turned the tragedy of losing two babies into motivation to help others, while in the midst of her own struggles. She became president of her village women's association two years ago when World Vision started a Child Survival Project there and is now looked to for guidance and advice on childcare. The Child Survival Project in Mali begins with literacy training for mothers. Once the women can read and write effectively, health training begins and health cards and growth monitoring charts are distributed.