Plan Mali is helping reduce the rate of malnutrition in Kangaba Cercle

Kangaba Cercle*

Area: 5,165 sq. km   
Population: 77,691    
Current areas of operation: 11 communes (2 communes in Kati Cercle)
Sponsored children: Around 7,600

Kangaba Cercle is located in the southern part of Koulikoro region. The population is mostly composed of Bambara and Malinké ethnic groups, who earn their living from cattle breeding, small trading and agriculture. However,  infertile soil and low rainfall means that yields are low.

The Kangaba Programme Unit was established in 1982 and currently operates in 11 communes. Key interventions include: fighting malnutrition, safe drinking water, child survival, early childhood care and development, child protection and participation, and microfinance. 

Programme highlights

Fighting malnutrition

Our nutrition programme has been implemented in all villages in partnership with local non-governmental organisations. It includes educating mothers on healthy nutrition, weighing children, as well as nutrition rehabilitation - the provision of locally produced food to malnourished children. Nutrition is crucial to children’s development, and the programme is helping to reduce the high percentage of malnutrition in the area.

Early childhood care and development (ECCD)

This is a pre-school programme for children aged 3-6 run in 16 villages. Plan Mali supported the construction of centres and supply of equipment, and trained mother educators for children in the communities. At the centres, children play games safely, receive medical visits and eat food supplements to support normal growth.

The activities at the centres have positively changed the behaviour of children. They are more alert, aware of basic hygiene practices - such as washing hands with soap - and are ready for enrolment at the primary school. Also, mothers can keep their children at the centre while they go out to work in the knowledge that it is a safe environment.

Protection and participation of children

Plan Mali creates and builds the capacity of child protection committees, promotes birth registration, leads activities in the fight against female genital cutting, and campaigns on HIV and AIDS issues. 

Plan Mali also works with children to produce a radio programme called ‘Kids Waves’ so they can advocate for their rights. 

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*In Mali, a 'Cercle' is an administrative subdivision.