Konkobo, Aminata

Aminata was about 10 years old at the time of our visit in July 2008.   Her father died, and then mother died in 2003 from an unknown illness.  Mom had married a 2^nd time and had a child named Aziz who is now 8 years old.  Aziz’s father is still living, but lives in the capital city and does nothing to care for the family.  So, Aminata and Aziz are being raised by an Aunt and Uncle who have 3 children of their own ranging in age from 2 to about 10. 

The family lives within the town of Yako.  Their small courtyard is part of one large courtyard and in poor condition.  They have no electricity and no animals.  Their water comes from a well.  Aminata helps her aunt and uncle cultivate a field of millet.  Her aunt also makes and sells little fried cakes to generate a small amount of income. 

Aminata just passed the 3^rd grade with an average grade of 5 out of 10.  Two of her cousins are in school also.  At the time of our visit, Aziz was sick with malaria, so we treated him and he’s fine now.