Senegal/A delegation from the French town of Firminy visits Matam

A delegation from the town of Firminy, in France, is furnishing its recently-begun stay in the commune of Matam with activities such as the creation of murals, discussions with the local population, cultural evenings, soccer and basketball matches, among others.

The multi-member delegation arrived in Matam on July 8. It was welcomed at the town's entrance by members of the town council and notables.

After two days of tracing, the members of the delegation completed the mural created on the premises of the town's former town hall, with the participation of young people from the Matam commune.

According to Ousmane Bâ, in charge of international cooperation for the commune of Matam, during their stay, the members of the delegation will take part in several activities, including discussions with young people.

Socialization activities are also planned.

The town of Firminy has a very good working relationship with the town of Matam, thanks to the "Matam à Cœur" association. It's with them that we've been able to set up projects since 2011, with a whole range of health, education and social programs," said Malika Astide, head of the delegation from France.

She added that a joint program for young people and women had been set up as part of the twinning between the two towns, with a "major socio-economic impact".

"We worked on the fresco with young people who were determined, dynamic and very committed to the town of Matam. There was an osmosis for this activity and for other initiatives that we were able to carry out together", she said.

Ousmane Bâ points out that the town of Matam has benefited a great deal from this cooperation, including transport buses for local schoolchildren.

The renovation of the Navel health post, the construction of bridging classrooms and the refurbishment of toilets at the Diamel elementary school are also among the achievements of the cooperation begun 14 years ago.

Firminy is a town in the Loire department, in the Auvergne-Rhônes-Alpes region.

Source: aps.sn/