In the town of Bonon, located in the center-west of Côte d'Ivoire, Guinean women have come together to form an organization aimed at promoting solidarity and mutual support. The group, led by Yayé Kanny Diallo, a native of Mamou, has been active since 2012, when Diallo first moved to Bonon. The organization has grown to include around thirty women, who participate in various activities and initiatives to support one another.
The Guinean women of Bonon are involved in various income-generating activities, including commerce and tailoring. According to Diallo, many of the women work alongside their husbands in commercial ventures, while others have developed skills in tailoring. These activities enable them to meet their personal needs and contribute to their households. The women's organization also provides a platform for them to share their experiences and support one another in their endeavors.
One of the key initiatives of the organization is a social fund, which provides financial support to members in times of need. Each member contributes 1,000 francs CFA per month to the fund, which has already provided significant assistance to members in cases of illness, marriage, baptism, or other social events. The organization meets on the fifth day of every month to collect contributions and discuss matters of concern.
The organization aims to expand its membership and outreach to more Guinean women living in Bonon. To achieve this goal, Diallo plans to implement a policy to attract new members and encourage existing members to participate more actively. The organization uses a WhatsApp group to communicate and stay informed about the arrival of new Guinean women in the area, whom they invite to join their group.
Despite the benefits of the organization, Diallo notes that some Guinean women in Bonon prefer to remain outside of associative movements. She encourages her compatriots to join the organization, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and collective support. By working together, the women aim to strengthen their social and economic ties and improve their overall well-being.
The Guinean women's organization in Bonon serves as an example of grassroots initiatives aimed at promoting women's empowerment and solidarity. Through their collective efforts, the women are able to address common challenges and support one another in their personal and professional lives. The organization's success highlights the potential for similar initiatives to take root in other communities.
As the organization continues to grow and evolve, its leaders remain committed to their goals of promoting solidarity and mutual support among Guinean women in Bonon. With the continued participation and engagement of its members, the organization is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of women in the community.
Key points
- The organization provides a social fund to support members in times of need.
