50%
Of the population make less than $1.90 a day
Widespread poverty
Poverty is the main reason why children lose parental care in southern Mali. Among the factors that contribute significantly to poverty are rural isolation, no access to social services and extremely low incomes. More than half of the population lives below the income poverty line, meaning that 50% make less than $1.90 a day. A lack of proper medical facilities and awareness means that children often die from mild illnesses, instead of benefitting from the country’s free vaccination programme. Children from struggling families often leave school to work. Common forms of child labour include sexual exploitation, begging and forced labour agricultural and domestic work.
87%
Of the population at risk in the area from floods
Natural disasters and insecurity
Mali is one of the hottest countries on the planet. Severe drought accompanied by flash floods often means the loss of crops and livestock. Few families are able to cope and thousands of parents have seen their children die of hunger. Each year during the rainy season, floods affect communities especially on the inner delta of the Niger River. In August 2019 floods put 87% of the population at risk in the area. Over 800 houses were washed away, leaving hundreds of people without a home and food stocks. The consequences of natural disasters for vulnerable families can leave them even more vulnerable than before.
Your support makes a difference for children in Socoura
SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
1,050
Children and young people
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
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Children in our care playing a game together. Siblings grow up together in families, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Mali).
How your support helps in Socoura
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.