Making A Difference In Mali
UK-prepared Land Cruiser supports West African outreach work
A Toyota Land Cruiser prepared by apprentice Toyota mechanics at Aylesbury Young Offenders Institution is bringing help and support to youngsters in remote communities in West Africa. The vehicle, a 3.0-litre D-4D model, was adapted for use on harsh, desert terrain in the prison workshops and shipped to Mali earlier this year.
Delivered through the UK-based Mali Development Group’s I Ni Che (Thank You) project, it is being used by Jeunesse et Dévéloppment, an organisation that tackles health, education, women’s issues and the plight of street children.
The robust Land Cruiser provides ideal transport for the team and its supplies across the rough terrain between Bamako, the capital city, and the Manankoro region near the Ivory Coast border. Having a reliable vehicle available has helped Jeunesse et Dévéloppment consolidate its work in the area, particularly in educating people about the dangers of malaria, the biggest killer in Mali.
Reports from Bamako illustrate the difference the new vehicle has made: journey times are much shorter than before, as the previous transport was old and prone to breakdowns, and all on board appreciate the air conditioning when travelling in sub-Saharan temperatures. In spite of the dusty conditions, the proud driver ensures the Land Cruiser is cleaned every day, so it should be set for many years of good service.
ENDS
