On September 29, the Koulikoro regional government in Mali welcomed over 100 children from the 11 urban districts, including children of military personnel who have fallen in service to their country, and district chiefs. This event was initiated by the region's governor, Colonel-major Lamine Kapory Sanogo, with the aim of bringing the regional administration closer to the population, particularly the youth, and introducing them to its operations and missions.
The event began with a historical and technical presentation of the regional administration by Monzomba Bagayogo, a former administrative secretary of the governorate. He discussed the establishment of the Koulikoro governorate, its evolution, and primary responsibilities. This was followed by an interactive session where children and district chiefs inquired about the governor's role, collaborators, governorate operations, and means of accessing regional authority.
According to Colonel-major Lamine Kapory Sanogo, the governorate's primary goal was to introduce children to the institution, which represents the state's presence at the regional level. He emphasized that as governor, he coordinates public and quasi-public structures in the region, implements national policies at a regional scale, and oversees the Regional Council.
A guided tour of the governorate's premises, specially decorated for Mali's 66th independence anniversary, was conducted after the interactive session. Children visited various governorate services, observed portraits of former Malian presidents and regional governors, and had the opportunity to sit in the governor's office.
The governor expressed satisfaction with the reception of the initiative by district chiefs and local leaders, who considered it a first in the region. He encouraged children to prioritize their studies, listen to their parents and teachers, and prepare to serve their country. Sanogo also plans to extend these visits to children from other regional localities interested in learning about the regional administration.
This initiative helped bridge the gap between the governor and the population, according to Sanogo. By engaging with children and introducing them to the governorate's functions, the event promoted a sense of citizenship and patriotism among young participants.
The Koulikoro region's effort to engage with its youth and promote understanding of regional governance structures reflects a broader commitment to enhancing civic awareness and participation in Mali. The governorate's actions are expected to inspire similar initiatives in other regions, fostering a stronger connection between local populations and their governments.
Key points
- Over 100 children from Koulikoro's 11 urban districts visited the regional government to learn about its operations and missions.
- The event aimed to promote citizenship and patriotism among young participants.
- The governor plans to extend these visits to children from other regional localities.
