Despite the efforts of the authorities and child protection organisations, many children continue to live on the streets or face situations of extreme vulnerability.
Since 2009, the FFL has been supporting the Maison de l’Enfance de Bouaké (MEB), run by the Association de la Maison de l’Enfance (AME). The centre takes in children and young people aged 6 to 18 in difficult circumstances, identified during street patrols, referrals or individual follow-ups.
In 2025, the MEB strengthened its collaboration with the Ministry for Women, Families and Children (MFFE) in relation to outreach work, which led to an increase in admissions, with 63 children taken in and provided with temporary accommodation. Given the centre’s limited capacity, adjustments were necessary to ensure the children were cared for in appropriate conditions.
The centre provides comprehensive support, including food, healthcare, psychosocial support and the distribution of clothing kits. Over the course of the year, 59 health check-ups were carried out and 227 instances of essential medical care were provided, whilst 50 children received psychological support and 27 were referred to specialist services.
Work on family reintegration remains a central focus of the project. In 2025, 54 children were successfully reintegrated into their families thanks to 71 interventions involving tracing, mediation and social support. Awareness-raising campaigns and community activities were also carried out to promote children’s rights and strengthen local engagement. At the same time, MEB supports children’s schooling and helps them prepare for exams. In 2025, 45 children received educational support to prepare for the Certificate of Elementary Primary Education (CEPE), with encouraging academic results. The centre also continued its extracurricular activities and strengthened its support for vocational training, with 20 young people receiving support whilst training with master craftsmen.