This morning revelation hit. There are so many things in Mali that show a solidarity of many things possible. Last night, with the rains dissipating the bugs once again came in huge numbers. These bugs are attracted to the light. Light given by electricity is only available in the more well off homes in Mali. While these bugs may be considered bothersome to some. they provide a huge source of protein for others. This morning, many women and children came with huge buckets to collect them. In Mali, these bugs are fried and eaten to provide an additional food for poorer families.

Watching for bugs at the door

Keanen directing Carmen where to pretend shoot bugs. Its a water gun( no water)

Kids from village collecting dead bugs

Group collection

The days collection.

The thought that hit home is one man’s bother may be the next man’s joy. Mali boasts many distinct groups and statuses. On the campaign trail, it will be important to speak to all these statuses and try to find a solidarity between them. It isn’t about leftovers, but rather about sharing a common wealth among all families and people.I am confident that Yeah will be able to do this. There are not many people who having lived the comfortable life in America, and would not want to live in a village in Mali. While Ouelessebougou does have electricity, not all people do. When I was here two years ago ( when Yeah was first elected mayor), there was not electricity in many homes and no running water in the village. Today, to see Ouelessebougou come so far with a solar grid that provides much of the electricity and taps throughout the city that have running water, brings to light that change is abound. We take these two things for granted as they are so readily available in the Western world. But to think of the benefits of these things. Light to study by at night. Light to work longer during the night. electricity to power TVs so that people can be educated about their country and how their leaders run them. Water easily accessible to children playing or to people working hard during the day. Mali is a hot country and so this comes as a welcome relief to men and women that usually work out in the fields for the most part of the day.

Meeting to gain support in Bamako

Yeah Samake and Garba Konate.

 Change is abound and that change can spread through Yeah. The campaign is heating up and the launch of Yeah’s new party nears. The meeting above happened a day after we came. People are excited for change to come. The support grows on a daily basis. This is a shout out to people who have seen change happen in their own communities and that have been blessed with unity among their own people to support this campaign. Yes, we may not all be able to vote in Mali. But we have the ability to provide the much-needed revenue to take this message out to all Malians. We also have the ability to spread the word and get other people involved. We need your support. Are you in?