The town of Macina in Mauritania recently hosted the official launch of the Month of Solidarity and Fight Against Exclusion. The event, co-chaired by Oumou Ballo, deputy mayor, and Moussa Kire, acting head of local development and solidarity economy, drew participation from various stakeholders. These included technical service chiefs, defense and security forces, religious leaders, and civil society representatives. The primary objective was to discuss activities planned for the month-long campaign.
In her welcome address, Oumou Ballo emphasized the significance of October, particularly in Macina. The town is one of the few areas that will observe this sacred month of sharing, despite the prevailing insecurity. This month of solidarity has been institutionalized 31 years ago. The campaign aims to promote unity and support for vulnerable groups within the community.
Moussa Kire, speaking on behalf of the prefect of the circle, encouraged participants to reflect on various aspects of the campaign. These included identifying sponsors for the month, weekly beneficiaries, and mobilizing funds. The meeting reached a consensus on several key personalities to serve as sponsors for different segments of the campaign. These included Mamadou A. Coulibaly as the sponsor for the Week of Elderly Persons.
Other sponsors appointed for the campaign include Djibril Coumare for the Week of Women and Children, Rokia Samake for the Week of Persons with Disabilities, and Touato Dembelé. Mounirou Traoré was chosen as the sponsor for the Week of Youth, Employment, and Entrepreneurship. Each sponsor will be responsible for mobilizing funds within their respective groups by a specified deadline.
A five-member bureau has been tasked with collecting funds from technical services and other personalities. A second meeting has been scheduled to finalize the collection of funds, which will be used to purchase gifts for beneficiaries. The campaign also touched on other important issues, including the upcoming revision of electoral lists and the celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11.
The event also featured an announcement from the medical chief, Dansine Synayoko, regarding a free surgical intervention for 150 cataract patients scheduled for early November. This initiative is expected to bring much-needed medical support to the community. The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to making the Month of Solidarity and Fight Against Exclusion a success.
The campaign in Macina reflects the town's dedication to promoting social cohesion and supporting vulnerable populations. With the support of various stakeholders and sponsors, the town aims to make a positive impact on the lives of its residents. Key activities will be implemented throughout the month, with a focus on promoting unity and solidarity.
Key points
- The Month of Solidarity and Fight Against Exclusion has been institutionalized in Macina for 31 years.
- A five-member bureau has been tasked with collecting funds for the campaign.
- The campaign includes a free surgical intervention for 150 cataract patients scheduled for early November.
