The new Malian Minister of Energy and Water, Mr. Sambou Wagué, received in audience, on Friday, October 12, some members of the REMAFPEA board. The purpose of the meeting was, according to the President, Mrs Konaré Kadiatou Malinké, to reiterate their congratulations to the Minister after his appointment and at the same time to present their network to him. The meeting took place in a friendly atmosphere. "We thank you most sincerely, Honorable Minister, for having received us, in spite of your busy schedules; this reflects your interest in the water sector. "said Mrs Konaré at the beginning of the exchanges. "We are here to congratulate you in person, introduce you to the network and reassure you of our willingness to work with you to improve the living conditions of Malian populations in terms of water and sanitation. "she continued. Following this, Mrs Sinenta Tiguida Diakité, Secretary for Projects and Programmes, presented the planning of activities for 2018-2020, while specifying that the main source of funding for the Network is based on membership fees, contributions, support of the members' General Directorates, and the goodwill of some donors.

Addressing his hosts, the Minister warmly congratulated them on their initiative and said he was very happy about the existence of a group of women who are taking up the challenge of the water and sanitation sector. He said he was aware of the difficulties that associations can encounter; "there are not many good wills," the Minister said. That is why he assured them of his unwavering support in helping them achieve their objectives and invited them not to hesitate to contact him if necessary. Finally, Mr. Sambou Wagué adviced them in terms of solidarity, teamwork, and also in terms of extending the Network's office by creating REMAFPEA branches in the different regions of Mali.

A family photo of REMAFPEA with the Minister crowned the end of the meeting.