OUR WORK > cbm co-worker stories from West Africa > Reviewing cbm projects
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Based in Lome - Reviewing cbm projectsIn September, we visited and advised at 10 cbm projects in Niger, Burkina Faso, Togo and Ghana. Each project has its own successes and challenges, but we are attempting to understand the project’s needs and to make a difference. Much of the role is about networking… One eye project in northern Ghana is the only hospital providing eye services in this poor (and now flooded!) mainly Muslim area. The eye unit is almost financially independent and has a small factory, set up by cbm, to produce eye drops which it sells to supplement its income. The drops are good quality and the unit is capable of larger production volumes. From our other visits, we knew of several eye projects which have problems with regular eye drop availability. We were able to link them and hopefully have helped overcome this barrier to the continuation of services.
Another project in Niger was particularly impactful for people with disabilities. We visited the “survival yards” garden project where a plot of land is secured for a disabled person and their family. A water well is dug for each plot. Training is given in agricultural practices for fruit and vegetables to make the plot productive year round, providing both food and marketable goods.
 We met Umau at her garden – she had polio when she was 15 years old. As we arrived, she crawled out of her hut on hands and knees beaming to see us. As she made her way over to her tricycle I was aware that this was one empowered woman! (see above photo)
She proudly showed us her garden (see below photo) which has enabled her to be a productive member of her family. Now she has respect within her community. The project doesn’t just stop at the garden but ensures latrines are built, mud stoves and mosquito nets are provided for the small community.
 Thank you all for your ongoing prayers and encouragement. We do feel and appreciate your support which enables us to continue the work we do.
Adieu,
Neil and Tania
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