Koutiala Training

This is a test of our Mali Midwives blog. If you are reading this because you contributed to Mali Midwives, you can give yourself a big pat on the back. I'm here in Koutiala enjoying one of the best days of my life. I feel like everything I have been struggling to put together just CAME together. I am so grateful to the staff at the health center for taking this opportunity wiht such efficiency, such professionalism. I am grateful to all the donors who made this possible. The staff here in Koutiala did exactly what I had hoped - they took complete ownership of the event. Today we began with the first group - 40 matrones in all. We were crammed in a sweltering room but the snacks and lunch were good, the trainers were fabulous, and there was an amazing energy. Even after this long day the matrone stayed to ask questions of their direct supervisor and her boss. It is a rare opportunity for them to be among colleagues and supervisors - they asked so many questions and you could tell that they were all listening, engaged, leaning forward, nodding, taking in. It was gorgeous to watch. I am so proud of this event I cannot find the words to express it. I am truly grateful for how this has worked out. I took a million pictures and will post as soon as I figure out how.