The President of Mali's Transition, General Assimi Goïta, presided over the 6th edition of the National Day of Orphans at the Palace of Koulouba. The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister General Abdoulaye Maïga and Health Minister Colonel-major Assa Badiallo Touré. This day, celebrated annually on October 31, recognises the nation's commitment to caring for children who lost their parents while serving the country.
The ceremony began with the national anthem and the anthem of the orphans, performed by residents of the National Office for Orphans in the Republic of Mali (Onapuma). The Minister of Health and Social Development, Colonel-major Assa Badiallo Touré, delivered a speech, highlighting the nation's recognition of these children's sacrifices. She praised President Goïta for his support and for providing new facilities for the orphans.
To date, 2,495 children have been registered, with 260 new orphans welcomed on Wednesday. Among them, 1,092 received school kits, 24 obtained their Baccalaureate, and 98 secured their Fundamental Study Diploma (DEF) in 2026. The Minister noted that the orphans' success rate exceeds the national average due to the state's commitment to their education.
Colonel-major Assa Badiallo Touré stated that the government prioritises protecting vulnerable children. She added that 110 orphans are currently attending university in Mali, and some have received scholarships from President Goïta to study abroad. The Minister emphasised that these achievements result from collective efforts to provide a secure environment for the orphans to thrive.
The celebration included a gift exchange between President Goïta and the orphans, followed by a shared lunch. The children affectionately refer to the President as "Tonton Assimi". This event demonstrates the nation's commitment to caring for its most vulnerable citizens.
The National Day of Orphans symbolises the nation's recognition of the sacrifices made by parents who lost their lives serving the country. The orphans, now 2,495 in number, have a unique legal status, ensuring the state's support and protection. President Goïta's administration continues to provide resources for their education and well-being.
On the sidelines of the celebration, President Goïta also handed over new vehicles to the Malian Armed Forces and Security Services. This gesture demonstrates the government's commitment to enhancing the capabilities of its security agencies. The event concluded with a renewed pledge to support Mali's most vulnerable populations.
Key points
- President Assimi Goïta presided over the 6th National Day of Orphans, highlighting the nation's commitment to caring for children who lost parents serving the country.
- A total of 2,495 orphans have been registered, with 260 new additions, and have benefited from educational support and resources.
- The Malian government prioritises protecting vulnerable children, with a focus on education and social welfare.
