It is a great time for celebration in Tiedjiguinela. This village has existed for 200 years, but it took until the year 2005 for us to finally have a school! As you can see, the volunteers here put on the finishing touches and completed the painting, and at least all the children were able to express their happiness (pictured)!
The people of Tiedjinela greet and thank all those who helped make this dream of a new school for the children possible. We also thank all of you who followed the construction of this schoolhouse step by step online here.
Female Genital Mutilation
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a practice that is still going on. Four girls were circumcised here in the village a few days ago. For a period of one week they have to stay together nights and days separated from their parents. They will be sleeping with old women who will take care of them and teach them some of the African traditional values based on the woman duties as a wife. They will also be taught to behave with boys. They stay on the roadside to play a traditional instrument and sing songs. People who pass by then give them some coins. After a week, they will buy some rice and meat to cook a meal that they will enjoy together before each goes to her family. Because these girls have been circumcised at the same time, they will consider each other sisters for their whole life. They will grow together and share many secrets. They will be placed in the same age group, even if some are older than others.
The government is fighting against FGM, but cannot control the ways of all Malians, especially the customs of those living in remote villages.
Reflection Questions:
Do you think that the practice of FGM happening because it is a traditional practice or because people are not educated?
These children have had their sexual organs mutilated against their will. What are your thoughts on this?
It is a great time for celebration in Tiedjiguinela. This village has existed for 200 years, but it took until the year 2005 for us to finally have a school! As you can see, the volunteers here put on the finishing touches and completed the painting, and at least all the children were able to express their happiness (pictured)!