Every year, Emmaus organisations and their partner organisations who want to develop their activities put forward projects to Emmaus International. Meeting with Nantégué Koné, Leader of Emmaus Jekawilli, Côte d’Ivoire.
"For us, it’s essential we give something back. Even if we don’t raise all that much because people here are poor, all the regions benefit from it, and that’s what’s most important."
You requested financing from Emmaus International for a project in 2012. What was the project for?
The project was motivated by our aim to become financially self-sufficient and to increase our incoming-generating activities by building a sixth henhouse to develop our poultry farming. We’re also setting up a new activity and have purchased three tarpaulin sheets, a sound system and 300 chairs which to hire out. We’re located on the outskirts of the city where there are a lot of cultural events which often require equipment.
Does international solidarity enable you to become more independent?
Yes, we’re aiming to become self-sufficient. We want to be sustainable and depend less on other groups.
What impact has this project had?
Emmaus groups’ international solidarity amounting to 9000 Euros firstly enabled us to create two extra jobs for our equipment hire service. Also, as part of the project, we’ve been able to increase the number of people we support through our partnerships with the Ministry of Social Welfare (financing hospital stays for the sick). We have also provided equipment to two nurseries that look after 190 abandoned babies and toddlers.
What do you do for international solidarity?
At Jekawilli we pay our Emmaus International subscriptions every year, but we also hold a big solidarity sale, which is quite unique because we sell chickens! We give all the proceeds. For us, it’s essential we give something back. Even if we don’t raise all that much because people here are poor, all the regions benefit from it, and that’s what’s most important.
