Program participant Damélé Germain. Photo by RET.

Article by Ben Dwork, Global Communications Officer for RET

SÉGOU, MALI – In the Ségou region of Mali, RET Germany has been working to improve livelihoods and food security through training in climate-adaptive agriculture and handicrafts, as well as promoting peaceful relations and economic interdependence among communities.

As part of our economic development work, we are working with local NGO REFOR to run vocational training programs. We spoke with Damélé Germain, a 23-year-old from Ségou, who has always harbored a passion for sanitary plumbing. Before joining the program, he worked as a moto taxi driver and occasionally as a DJ. Despite his interest in plumbing since childhood, he never had the opportunity to pursue it formally until the program came to his community.

Damélé’s Experience

Damélé’s journey with RET Germany began when a neighbor informed him about an upcoming project that aligned perfectly with his interests. Intrigued and eager to learn, Damélé joined the program and has since been deeply involved. The training schedule, from Monday to Thursday, includes practical sessions and small repair activities, such as replacing faucet heads at the academy and fixing minor issues.

“I have learned a lot of things, such as how to assemble and cut pipes. With what I have learned, I know I will achieve a lot even before the program ends.”

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Through the program, Damélé has gained valuable skills in assembling and cutting pipes, which he enthusiastically lists among the many things he has learned. His favorite activity remains sanitary plumbing, an interest he has held since a young age. The structured learning environment and hands-on experience have significantly boosted his confidence and proficiency in this field.

The vocational training center also provides instruction on construction techniques. Here, two program participants are preparing to make bricks from local materials. Photo by RET.

Impact on the Local Community: Inspiring Youth to be Self-Reliant

Damélé believes that the program is vital for the youth and the community. It provides young people with the skills and confidence to be self-reliant. For Damélé, the training has been transformative, giving him a sense of purpose and a clear direction for his future. He plans to use the knowledge and skills acquired to embark on his own projects, contributing to community development and improving local infrastructure. He says, “I have learned a lot of things, such as how to assemble and cut pipes. With what I have learned, I know I will achieve a lot even before the program ends.”

Despite facing challenges, Damélé and his peers have persevered, driven by their commitment and the program’s supportive framework. The initiative not only equips participants with technical skills but also instills a sense of community and mutual support.

Looking Forward

Damélé is optimistic about the future: “The program is really important for the community, because it helps us become self-reliant.” He envisions using his newfound skills to make tangible improvements in his community, aspiring to take on more significant projects and perhaps even mentor others interested in plumbing.

“I have learned a lot of things, such as how to assemble and cut pipes. With what I have learned, I know I will achieve a lot even before the program ends.”

Damélé is a testament to how vocational training can unlock potential and pave the way for personal and communal growth. In his words, “When you are young and striving to learn a trade, having a project that helps you achieve this is truly beneficial.” His experience underscores the importance of such programs in empowering individuals and fostering sustainable development within communities.

To help us continue this important work in Mali and in communities like Damélé’s, make a donation to RET today.