Mali is one of the poorest countries in the world, where 36% of the population lives below the poverty line. The infant mortality rate is particularly high and life expectancy at birth is also among the lowest in the world. Malnutrition is also the number one cause of infant mortality.

The Foundation Stichting Dogon Onderwijs (SDO) has been active in Mali since 1995. Its purpose is to support and encourage education in the Dogon region to improve the quality of life sustainably. The foundation works in collaboration with local entrepreneurs and the local community to realize school buildings, wells and dams. In the recent years the field of activity has been widened towards projects for educational program called ‘Les Mots Imprimés’, restoration of World Heritage, building onion houses and homes for teachers, organizing ‘Dogon Women Initiative’, implementing the clean water supply program ‘Blue Pump’, launching the ‘Green Desert Initiative ’as part of the agriculture and nutrition education. The construction of the health center is also among them.

Stichting Dogon Onderwijs (SDO) raises funds to support and encourage education in the Dogon country, and to improve quality of life in a sustainable manner. SDO is also funding the construction of the vaccination and information center in Sangha.
The foundation supports local initiatives that respond to community requirements. It is essential that the community itself invests manpower or finance, so that they become owners of the project. Only that which the community cannot do itself is eligible for support. SDO collaborates with the motivated Malian partner organization ADI (Association Dogon initiative), who carry out all the projects.