Noungou, Rakietta

Rakietta is 6 years of age as of our visit in January 2009 (however, she looks older – it’s hard to know how accurate ages are here.)  Rakietta’s father died in 2004 from an unknown illness, leaving behind his wife and 5 children.  Since then, one of the children has married and 3 are living in the town of Yako selling bread to provide for themselves. 

Rakietta and her mother live in the village of Lilboure.  They are in a small courtyard with another woman who was the 2nd wife of their Muslim husband, and an elderly blind woman.  The 2nd wife has a child in the 3rd grade.  Rakietta is not yet in school; but is a likely candidate for one of our preschool programs in preparation for 1st grade next school year.  Their home is in acceptable condition, but the roof may be in need of some repair.

They have 3 goats remaining.  Mom farms alone and also spins wool to sell for a small income.