Urgent: Coopi Launches Critical Health & Nutrition Project in Mali’s Bandiagara Region – Breaking News
Bamako, Mali – International aid organization Coopi is rapidly scaling up its operations in Mali, launching a new project aimed at providing immediate health, nutrition, and protection to the most vulnerable populations in the Bandiagara region. This breaking development comes as the region faces increasing challenges related to food security and access to essential services. The project, funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), underscores Coopi’s commitment to long-term support for communities impacted by instability and hardship. This is a developing story, and we’ll be updating as more information becomes available. For those following Google News, this is a critical development in the humanitarian landscape of Mali.
Addressing Urgent Needs in Bankass and Koro
The AICS project, designated AID: 12 566/01/0, will focus specifically on the circles of Bankass and Koro within the Bandiagara region. Coopi has been a consistent presence in Mali since 2012, initially concentrating on nutrition programs in the Ségou and Mopti regions. However, in recent years, the organization has strategically broadened its scope to encompass health, child protection, economic reinstatement, and psychosocial support for migrants – a testament to the evolving needs on the ground. This expansion is crucial given the complex interplay of factors contributing to vulnerability in the region, including climate change, displacement, and limited access to healthcare.
The Role of the ‘TRICE’ – A Vital Field Position
Coopi is currently seeking a dedicated “TRICE” (Terrain, Recherche, Information, Collecte, Évaluation) – essentially a field support worker – to play a pivotal role in the project’s implementation. This position, based in either Bankass or Koro, will be directly involved in supporting Community Health Centers (CSCOM), ASC sites (community spaces), and surrounding villages. The TRICE will work closely with nutrition supervisors and the project manager, ensuring activities are carried out effectively and data is accurately collected. The emphasis on data collection highlights the importance of monitoring and evaluation in ensuring the project’s impact.
Key Responsibilities: A Focus on Maternal and Child Health
The TRICE’s responsibilities are multifaceted, with a strong emphasis on maternal and child health. These include:
- Conducting active and passive malnutrition screening and monitoring cases.
- Supervising and training community health workers (GSAN) in malnutrition detection and referral.
- Supporting CSCOMs in adhering to the national Malnutrition Management Protocol.
- Distributing hygiene kits to mothers and monitoring stock levels.
- Facilitating awareness sessions on nutrition, hygiene, and sanitation.
- Providing training and support to community staff.
Evergreen Context: The Importance of Nutrition in Mali
Mali consistently faces significant nutritional challenges. According to UNICEF, chronic malnutrition rates among children under five remain stubbornly high, impacting their physical and cognitive development. Factors contributing to this include poverty, limited access to diverse diets, seasonal food shortages, and inadequate healthcare. Coopi’s work, and projects like this AICS-funded initiative, are vital in addressing these underlying issues and building resilience within communities. The focus on “Anje” – a local term for nutrition-focused community groups – demonstrates a commitment to sustainable, community-led solutions. Understanding UNICEF’s work in Mali provides further context to the challenges and opportunities.
Skills and Qualifications: What Coopi is Looking For
The ideal candidate for the TRICE position will possess a state nursing diploma, health technician qualification, or midwifery certification. A minimum of one year of experience in nutrition or health is required, with experience in pediatrics being a significant advantage. Crucially, candidates must demonstrate fluency in French (both spoken and written) and local languages, as well as proficiency in basic IT tools like Excel and PowerPoint. Beyond technical skills, Coopi emphasizes qualities such as respect for confidentiality, strong communication skills, rigor, flexibility, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. A motorcycle license is also essential for navigating the challenging terrain.
How to Apply: Urgent Deadline
Interested candidates are invited to submit their updated CV, cover letter, and any relevant documentation (criminal records check, diplomas, work certificates) via email to [email protected]. The email subject line must clearly state: “N ° 0006/09/APN/Bankass/Koro/2025”. The application deadline is September 26, 2025, at 5:00 pm. Coopi reserves the right to finalize recruitment before the stated deadline, so early applications are strongly encouraged. For more information about Coopi’s work, visit their local offices in Bamako, Sévaré, Bankass, or Djenné.
This project represents a critical intervention in a region facing significant humanitarian challenges. Coopi’s commitment, coupled with the support of AICS and other donors like UNICEFEcho and the Global Fund, offers a beacon of hope for vulnerable communities in Mali. Staying informed about developments in the region and supporting organizations like Coopi is essential for fostering lasting positive change.
