With a delay of nearly two weeks, the new basic training course at CAAS has now begun. Forty of the roughly 150 preselected applicants have so far been able to start their training. Due to the nationwide fuel shortage, many candidates have not yet been able to travel to the campus for the entrance exam. Once the situation eases – as we hope – more trainees will be able to join the group.
The fuel crisis has placed a heavy burden on Mali in recent weeks. The militant group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) has, since early September, blocked key import routes from Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire and carried out attacks on fuel tankers. Many petrol stations have closed, public transport has come to a standstill, and power outages are frequent. Schools and universities have been temporarily shut down, while prices for basic goods and transport have risen sharply.
At CAAS, operations can fortunately continue with only limited disruption. The center remains a place of stability and safety: water, electricity, accommodation, and regular meals are ensured – all of which cannot be taken for granted for many young women in Mali at this time.
Many staff members live in the annex directly opposite the campus, so they are not dependent on fuel for their commute. The center’s self-sufficiency in solar energy and drinking water demonstrates the intended resilience of its operations. Training, agricultural work, and the daily provision for participants can continue.
We are closely monitoring the situation and doing our best to act with foresight to ensure the safety, continuity, and stability of the center and its community.
