Mali

In 2018, Mali’s reigning government won again in a mostly peaceful election, which was a milestone for the country. However, ongoing violence in the northern and central regions has created instability. Many people are migrating south to avoid danger, which has put a strain on the country’s resources. Schools have closed and people can’t access basic services or resources. The internal displacement affecting many families is worsened by the lack of food security. Many families already couldn’t grow enough food to feed their families year-round, and being forced to leave their homes only makes the problem worse. Unemployment rates are high, especially for youth, and many citizens are calling on the government to support Malians better when it comes to jobs and economic struggles. Thanks to the support of our donors, the most vulnerable children and families in Mali are getting protected. Working together with the government, especially the country’s first lady, we launched a national campaign to end child marriage. People are learning about children’s rights and the dangers of early marriage. Kids are reading better and have better support for their educations, so they can create brighter futures for themselves. When the violence in the center of the country worsened this year, we reached over 400,000 vulnerable people with assistance they needed to survive, like food, water, and hygiene kits.