Fatouma, President of the Kara Bara Village Savings and Loans Group with one of her new compatriots. © CARE Mali Dana Dobrescu LeroyIn central Mali, the women of the Dogon community of Bara Sara have found that forming a Village Savings and Loans (VSL) group with assistance from CARE has given them a lot more than greater financial security. The Kara Bara VSL group has been running for two years.
The Dogon are an ethnic group living in the central plateau region of Mali. They have a rich cultural life and history, steeped in an impressive cosmogony. However traditional life can also create restrictions and limitations.
The same day the first ever woman Prime Minister in Mali was elected, the energetic women of the Kara Bara group speak about the reality of their daily lives, and the shadows inherent in sticking rigidly to tradition.
Everyone was there for her
Almost everybody was there. Only one missing – Hawa Dibo, who had recently lost her one year old child.
Just two years ago the group would have considered this “his fate” and felt powerless. Today sadness is mixed with frustration. “The group contributed to the health expenses. We tried to make sure the child was seen by a doctor! But it was too late…”
In the past Hawa would have had to find support only from her family. This time everybody was there for her. Even the members of the other village VSL groups mobilised to help.
Money for regular needs no longer a problem
Asked what changed in their lives since the creation of the VSL group the members look puzzled. “So many things happened… We developed personal connections. Everyone now has a small business. Money for regular needs is no longer a problem.” one says.
Fatouma Dibo, the co-president of Kara Bara is more specific. “I know how to cook enriched porridge for my children. I learned the importance of hygiene. My husband is listening not only to me but also to what other women from the community are saying. This is a big change.”
“Who could have even imagine a couple of years ago that I would dare to stand in front of a male gathering and fight for women’s beliefs? I would have said it is impossible for that to happen here, in our community.” confesses Binta Dibo, the other president.
“Your VSLA taught you to be tough!”
“A couple of months ago we heard the membership of the local Health Management Committee was going to change. There was a meeting to discuss it. We went to hear the list of members. They were all men! I stopped the speaker and asked him since when did our community only consist of men? Are they the ones to bring children to the doctor or give birth?
“You can’t imagine the fuss we created. At the end of the day, Binta Aly was appointed as a member of the Committee. The first woman in the history of the group!” says Binta Dibo proudly.
“And guess what the men said? It is your VSLA who taught you to be so tough!” adds Binta Aly, laughing.
"I opened myself to the world"
Batouma, the village griot – a traditional singing storyteller whose role is passed down through a family line, said the group had changed her life. “What can I say? For the first time people from a cast like mine are participating in all activities - just like anyone else.”
Fatouma looks at the others with pride. “I opened myself to the world and I got the opportunity to meet people like you who listen to me and give me advice. It is not a small thing.”
Batouma agrees: “It is true… and it is something that for me, as a griot, is very important. We have always been living with the community, but never as equals.
“Also in my work the Kara Bara group is very helpful. Now, when there are ceremonies where I go to sing, I take a small credit that I pay back at my return.” says Batouma.
“Kara Bara, since you were created I forgot what starving means, I forgot what loneliness is and I discovered what is to be appreciated and assisted in need. I learned to be with the others and sing my own joy. Stay as you are Kara Bara, be with us and we will be with you, as our future is with you…” sings the griot!
