The story of how a small rainwater collection dam in the Malian village of Pélou came to be is a short but meaningful reflection of NEF’s work around the world. Partnering with the Embassy of the Netherlands in Bamako, NEF and the village leaders discussed how best to improve the livelihoods and food security of the people in the area. The community, with help from NEF, came together to make these improvements.

NEF works within partner communities to help them understand their own needs, decide what improvement to make based on their individual needs, and help them overcome obstacles to sustainable development, prosperity and peace.

Our work is grounded in the belief that, to play an active role in the development of their communities and countries, people need opportunities and tools: the knowledge to participate in civic and economic life, a voice in public decisions that affect their wellbeing, and a means of making a meaningful living.