En vidéo : quatre jeunes maliens racontent leur parcours vers l’emploi

At the age of 21, Issa TESSOUGUE has turned his passion for mobile phone repair into a career. Through technical training provided with the support of the Chifinw ka baarasira project, he strengthened his electronics skills and opened his own shop in Bamako.

Now working independently, Issa hopes to continue developing his business, open several specialised shops and, eventually, establish training centres where he can pass on his expertise to other young people.

His story shows how vocational training can empower young people and open up new opportunities for their future in Mali.

At 25, Djeneba SANOGO is determined to harness the potential of one of her region’s greatest assets: mangoes. Since childhood, she has seen large quantities of fruit go to waste every year due to a lack of processing facilities.

With support from the Chifinw ka baarasira project, Djeneba completed training in mango processing. She gained technical skills as well as essential knowledge in sourcing, hygiene, quality control and food safety.

Despite the challenges associated with her disability, Djeneba has pursued her education and career plans with determination. She now aims to establish her own processing facility and make it a leading enterprise in Mali and across the subregion.

Her journey demonstrates the potential of vocational training to foster inclusion and entrepreneurship while adding value to locally produced goods.

At the age of 28, Alassane KEÏTA decided to train in hatchery-based fish fry production to become self-reliant and better provide for his family.

Through training delivered as part of the Chifinw ka baarasira project, he expanded his knowledge and acquired new technical skills in fish farming.

Alassane now aims to establish his own fish farm and grow his business. His journey illustrates how vocational training can help young people bring their plans to life and build a better future in Mali.

After returning home, Sira DEMBÉLÉ resumed making soap from gum arabic and developed new production techniques. She then began selling her products and sharing her expertise by training other women, particularly in rural communities.

With the support of the Chifinw ka baarasira project, Sira completed training in environmental protection, followed by a two-month practical placement at AFRIKAGRI. There, she learned about gum arabic production, tree planting and plant care.

Sira now hopes to continue working to protect the environment and eventually establish a training centre where she can pass on her knowledge. Through her work, she aims to contribute to the training and empowerment of young people and women in Mali.