After four intense days of training on the last day Dr. Becky and Pat went over complications at birth, administered exams to verify the level of comprehension—and happily everyone passed. We were visited by the Prefect of Ingall, who is the governmental leader of the commune and the Tuareg traditional chief over all the communities with whom we work.

Prefet of Ingall in an animated show of support
The support of the local authorities is very important and making them aware of our work is always a challenge since we are so remote. We invited the Prefet of Ingall and the Tuareg traditional chief to see some of the final day of training and the graduation ceremony. The visit of these two was a huge stamp of approval for our work and they promised their support wherever possible. We were delighted they came.

Dr Becky and Pat present Tinzere–one of our top students–who helped us teach the others with her certificate.

It is customary for anyone taking part in a training to receive a per diem. In addition to transportation, food and housing, I presented each matron with an envelope to cover the costs of her being away from home. Danda accepting her envelope.
I always ask them to sign for their envelope. Since none are literate–none have a signature so they are challenged to make their marks. It is charming to see these brilliant women struggle to get the x or triangle or squiggle that they have adopted as a signature into the correct box on the paper. This may be the only time they use it, but anyone who ever attends our training must sign for their per diem–so I suspect they are getting used to it.

Graduated matrones display their medical bags replenished with new supplies and medicines along with visiting dignitaries, hardworking crew and proud teachers
Abou is TALL just like my guy
That saved me from all the dust in the crowd
At Ingal…remember his shirt
Had his name on it!! 🙂
MARQ–yes funny that the whole crew was named MARQ
yes you are right ; we (those whom help the nomads) need the help and the support of the autorities !
But we need also that the international help(FAO and Others ) are going directly and completely to the inhabitants !
thank you for your engagement! LouisPS I inform you about the death of my wife in july