Socoura

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Mali).

Socoura is a small town located in the Mopti Region of Mali. Despite some government initiatives, roughly 50% of the population continues to live below the poverty line, which according to the United Nations is $1.90 per day. The region remains marked by high levels of illiteracy, as access to education continues to be limited. Many children do not go to school, and instead have to contribute to the family income by working in the fields.

Since 1996, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Socoura.

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
100
Children
Grow up in our care
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.