The original idea of establishing KDF was born out of an observation of remarkable poverty and social injustice. 77.5% of the Kolda populace are classified as poor. This abject state of poverty has dramatic consequences for the most vulnerable and marginalized segment of the populace, mainly women, children, and youths, more than 80% of whom are under 30 years old. Kolda is plagued by health and education disparities, malnutrition and food insecurity, high maternal and infant mortality, premature marriages, high rate of youth unemployment, school dropouts, and environmental degradation.
The founders’ memories of Kolda are assorted with cultural and linguistic intermingling, fellowship, friendship and spontaneous fraternity emanating from sporting and cultural events. They also share painful experiences often resulting from the premature death of a loved one due to poverty and inadequate health care services. The growing membership is attributable to the collective commitment to changing the narrative about their region by developing an inclusive approach to socio-economic development.
Our credibility is based on our diversity and understanding of the languages and cultures of the region, Africa and the world. Our governance and development model is based on research and innovation. KDF’s priority sectors are education, health, environment and entrepreneurship in a spirit of equity and equality. The founders of KDF have acquired quality academic education complemented by experiences in charitable, health and educational activities, and within international organizations. They share a common vision and commitment which they have molded into a model of endogenous development organization.
Kolda represents an intersection under increasing demographic pressure. Furthermore, its vital workforce, due to lack of decent professional opportunities, has been heading for perilous migratory itineraries and an uncertain future. In a nutshell, KDF’s ambition is to jointly build a better future for both Kolda and its diaspora in order to meet the social, economic and cultural challenges of the region and beyond.
Participants recommended moving forward with the creation of not for profit organization to contribute in the development of their native region of Kolda, Senegal, west Africa.
Task Force members agreed to raise money to create a not for profit organization in the United States and to explore ways to do the same in other countries where the diaspora lives including in France, Canada and Senegal.
