In the heart of Côte d'Ivoire's Daloa region, a significant Guinean community thrives, bound together by a strong sense of solidarity and social responsibility. Mamadou Saliou Diallo, a native of Kollet village in Guinea's Tougué prefecture, has been a resident of Daloa for 10 years. As a prominent member of the community, he has been instrumental in fostering this sense of unity and support. The community's social support system is a testament to their commitment to helping one another in times of need.
The Guinean community in Daloa has a long history of promoting unity and solidarity among its members. According to Mamadou Saliou Diallo, this tradition was inherited from their parents, who recognized the importance of collective support. To ensure the continuation of this initiative, the community established an association that brings together members from various regions, including Koubia, Koïn, Mamou, Dinguiraye, Lélouma, and Dara-Labé. This association serves as a platform for members to come together, share their experiences, and provide support to those in need.
The association's social support system is built on a monthly contribution of 1,000 FCFA per member. These funds are directly used to support members facing social challenges. In cases where a member requires assistance, the association can provide up to 60,000 FCFA per incident. This support system has enabled the community to undertake various projects, including the construction of a mosque bearing the name of the Guinean community. Additionally, the association has created a platform for members to connect and share information.
Despite the success of the association, some challenges persist. Mamadou Saliou Diallo acknowledges that not all members of the Guinean community in Daloa are part of the association. Some individuals choose not to declare themselves, which can limit the association's ability to provide support. However, the association remains open to all members of the community, and Mamadou Saliou Diallo encourages those who are not yet part of the association to join.
The social support system has had a positive impact on the community, enabling members to assist one another in times of need. Mamadou Saliou Diallo highlights the importance of this collective support, particularly in cases of medical emergencies. By working together, community members can rely on one another for help, rather than seeking assistance from external sources.
The Guinean community in Daloa is not unique in its commitment to solidarity and social support. Similar associations can be found in other regions of Côte d'Ivoire, where Guinean communities have established themselves. These associations serve as a vital lifeline for members, providing a sense of security and support in a foreign country.
As Mamadou Malal Baldé reports from Abidjan, the Guinean community's social support system in Daloa serves as a model for other communities. By joining forces and working together, community members can overcome challenges and build a brighter future for themselves and their families. The association's success is a testament to the power of collective action and solidarity.
Key points
- The Guinean community in Daloa, Côte d'Ivoire, has established a social support system, providing up to 60,000 FCFA to members in need.
- The community's association serves as a platform for members to come together, share their experiences, and provide support to those in need.
- Despite some challenges, the association remains open to all members of the community, and encourages those who are not yet part of the association to join.
