Ramadan is a time to reflect, improve our character and think of those less fortunate. While many Muslims increase their support for those in need during the holy month, Islamic Relief’s Moussa Goita sheds light on the dire humanitarian situation in Mali and the importance of supporting vulnerable families throughout the year.
The Covid-19 pandemic and political instability in Mali has had a devastating effect on the economy. Unemployment is rife and the price of fuel has risen dramatically, which has had a knock-on effect on food prices.
Everyday life has become challenging and many are in urgent need of help.
To make matters even worse, this year the crop yield in was very low. Millet (a type of grain widely- eaten in Mali) used to be one-third of the price of rice. The poor harvest has meant that it is now the same price. Families who could only afford to feed their children with millet are now desperately struggling and do not know where their next meal is coming from.
People also fear for their lives and safety amid political turmoil and there have even been reports of entire harvests being burnt by armed groups. It’s clear to see that communities are now bracing themselves for the worst.
Witnessing suffering first-hand
As an aid-worker, I can see the humanitarian situation in Mali worsening. I meet families who have been forced from their homes amid violence and who now live in dire conditions in camps. Many are in desperate need of help. Some feel they have no choice but to send their young children to beg for food and money along busy roads thronged with fast cars and motorbikes.
Other children are sent to large rubbish tips to look for charcoal – or anything at all of value. This can be devastating for their health and development. Health facilities in the camps are usually inadequate, and many cannot receive the treatment they desperately need.
It’s saddening to see that after so much turmoil and suffering, many have simply lost hope. I recently came across an elderly woman Fatima, who struggles to earn a living and provide for her family. Beaten down by difficult circumstances, she felt that, “poor people cannot expect anything good in life”.
While it’s difficult to hear stories like this, I also feel privileged to help those in need. Hearing their stories gives me the strength to keep going and do all I can to support them, in the hope that they and their children may have a brighter future.
Essential support for struggling families
Since the beginning of the crisis Islamic Relief has been supporting families in Mali with essential food aid, clean water and healthcare.
Many aid organisations ceased their programmes here amid the conflict, but Islamic Relief have remained by the sides of those in need. We are increasing our support in Mali and doing what we can to relieve people’s suffering.
During Ramadan, we provided nearly 11,000 people with food packages containing staple items with which to start and end their fasts. This year’s programme was welcomed by the government, as it provided much-needed hope and relief amid a bleak humanitarian situation.
Mariam’s story
Single mother-of-5 Mariam was among those who received an Islamic Relief food package this Ramadan. Mariam was forced to flee her home in Bankass, northern Mali as armed groups assaulted her family and burnt their possessions.
She is now living with her family in a camp in Ouelessebougou, where living conditions are poor. None of her children are able to attend school and often go to bed hungry.
Mariam was very happy to receive a food parcel, which offered a ray of hope for her and her children. She was able to fast throughout the month and focus on her relationship with Allah without worrying about how she would feed her children.
We need your help
As well as supporting those affected by the recent conflict in Mali, Islamic Relief also run longer-term projects in the country which are helping communities to adapt to climate change, earn a sustainable living, and get access to education.
While we are doing all we can to help, communities in Mali are still in urgent need of help. We desperately need your support to increase our reach to those suffering, many of whom have been left traumatised by the devastating political and humanitarian situation.
Ramadan may be over, but we mustn’t forget about those suffering in Mali. I ask Muslims across the world pray for peace in my country which has experienced crisis after crisis since 2012. While we trust in Allah Almighty’s mercy, we should do all we can to help our brothers and sisters.