SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 1 SEMAFO Foundation Is a key economic player that places people and social development at the heart of its activities.

Who we are ...... 4 Message from the board ...... 5 Sectors of intervention in ...... 7 ...... 8 Est Region ...... 10 Projects per village as of 2009 ...... 12 This year’s achievements ...... 14 Some figures ...... 15 Our investments this year ...... 16 Financial report ...... 17 Education and training ...... 18 Agriculture and sustainable development...... 22 Support for the population and for production ...... 26 Health ...... 29 2016-2017 Commitments ...... 32 Our partners ...... 33 Financial statements ...... 34

2 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 3 Who we are MESSAGE from the President of the Board and from the General Manager

The SEMAFO Foundation is a charitable As of January 1, 2016, our actions are aligned towards achievement The challenges posed by sustainable development are numerous because organisation focused on helping West of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined by the General the targeted goals address everyday considerations such as climate and political changes, absence of international capital investment, weak African countries, specifically communities Assembly of the United Nations in September 2015. Although our in Burkina Faso in the fight against poverty. exports, population growth, lack of access to education and health care, as activities relate to a number of the 17 target goals, we primary work on well as brain drain. 6 goals: Inspired by the United Nations’ Sustainable In 2016, in sub-Saharan Africa, about 40% of the population subsist on less Development Goals (SDGs) (2016-2030), than US$1.90 per day. More than 790 million adults do not have access to Benoit Desormeaux the Foundation directs its activities to adequate food. To meet the new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by President, CPA, CA where the need is greatest. SDG 1 2030, we need to work in partnership in order to develop a common NO POVERTY intervention strategy. SDG 5 GENDER EQUALITY To this end, to secure revenue-generating activities such as the production of sesame, honey and shea-based products, we worked with local partners and identified buyers in international markets. We also supported a poultry- raising program for a women’s group and recruited an extra person for the SDG 2 Est region who will support the population in implementing new sustainable ZERO HUNGER development projects. SDG 6 Chantal Guérin CLEAN WATER AND General Manager, MBA SANITATION To promote access to education, we built 10 classrooms and 20 latrines in addition to installing five freshwater boreholes. The 10,000 school kits distributed to 28 schools were greatly appreciated by children and parents.

SDG 4 We invite you to read this report to learn more about the Foundation’s QUALITY EDUCATION SDG 17 accomplishments this year. Just imagine what we could achieve together! PARNERSHIPS FOR “To change the future, THE GOALS We would like to extend a big thank-you to ongoing supporters of the you have to change the present. Our mission Foundation’s activities. We also thank our staff and partners, all of whom Our mission is to support communities and offer an improved quality of life, help us work towards the SDGs. Thank you for sharing our concerns with And, the future truly begins regard to a better allocation of resources. notably in the regions where SEMAFO or one of its subsidiaries is present. We through a triumphant hope to influence change through our actions, our investments in community development projects and through education. commitment to the present.”

Our employees Our team of 10 persons (Burkina Faso (7), Montreal (3)) works together in de- (Stuart Avery Gold) veloping and supporting our projects in Burkina Faso.

Our donors Financial donations allow the Foundation to implement its sustainable development activities in multiple communities in Burkina Faso. Donations come from across the world, but especially from Canada. Thanks to the dona- tions, the Foundation was able to implement infrastructure development and BOARD OF DIRECTORS revenue-generating projects (shea products, sesame, beekeeping and agricul- ture), all of which directly improve the quality of life of the Foundation’s benefi- ciaries.

Our zones of intervention Since 2008, the Foundation has been operating in West Africa, particularly in Burkina Faso and in Niger. In July 2015, the Foundation discontinued its activi- ties in Niger and transferred its assets to Larassu, an NGO set up by its Nigeri- an employees. The cumulative data as of 2008 in this report therefore include Benoit Desormeaux Francine Sauriol Nora Farah Sébastien Beauchamp Jean Lamarre Elie Justin Ouedraogo Chantal Guérin those from Niger unless otherwise noted. President Vice-president Secretary and Treasurer Director Director Director General Manager

4 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 5 Sectors of Intervention in Burkina Faso

762,400 people impacted by our We’re Here  SEMAFO Foundation’s main intervention as of 2009 sectors of intervention in Burkina Faso are the Boucle du Mouhoun 130 cities and villages affected region in the northwest, including  the provinces of Mouhoun and Balé; and the province of Tapoa in  11 out of 13 regions reached the Est region.

6 SEMAFOFondation Foundation SEMAFO——RapportAnnual annuelReport 20152015--20162016 SEMAFOSEMAFO Foundation Foundation —— Annual Report 2015-2016 7 The Boucle du Mouhoun region has a population of 1,874,236 inhabitants spread between 7 provinces. SEMAFO Foundation primarily operates in the provinces of Mouhoun and Balé, which have 319,249 (2009) and

Region of Boucle du Mouhoun 243,059 (2011) inhabitants, respectively.

Source: Burkina Faso National Institute of Statistics and Demography (INSD) 104 towns and villages impacted in this sector

Legend: Towns and villages supported

8 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 9 SEMAFO Foundation began outreach activities in this area in 2015. The Est region has a population of 1,647,056 inhabitants (2014) spread between 5 provinces. The province of Tapoa where we primarily

Est Region operate is home to 341,782 inhabitants (2006) living in 183 villages.

13 towns and villages impacted in this sector Source: Burkina Faso National Institute of Statistics and Demography (INSD)

Legend: Towns and villages supported

10 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 11 Legend: * Total number of librairies constructed and refurbished, ** 1,502,424 items (donations) were distributed, *** 60,962 school kits Invested in charitable projects were distributed, **** 1 000 subsidized Total Awango S-300 solar lamps were distributed, ***** 3,265 S-10 portable solar lamps $8,630,012 (FCFA 3,922,732,727)

12 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 13 Our Achievements Facts and Figures this year Beekeeping, shea products and sesame

Increase of

From the beginning of these three 1,215 % projects until June 30, 2016: In the area under sesame cultivation that Infrastructure we supervise

JUNE 2010 JUNE 2016

$4,398,481 10 4 733 TONNES Classrooms built TONNES The area includes (FCFA 2 027 388 499) 42 villages JUNE 2010 JUNE 2016 within 6 communes. INCOME GENERATED

6 282 3,427 Freshwater HECTARES HECTARES boreholes Projects 20 Latrines $728,470 (FCFA 331,122,727) Income generated by beneficiaries of our projects in Burkina Faso 3,441 DIRECT PARTICIPANTS

with a Investment % Increase 12.5 in participation School kits $1,103,735 (FCFA 501,697,727) Amount invested in charitable projects 10,204 School kits distributed Farmer Awa Yé and her son during the sesame harvest at Koana

14 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 15

Balance Sheet

Charitable expense breakdown* Boucle du Mouhoun Est Total expense

INVESTMENT CAD$ FCFA CAD$ FCFA CAD$ FCFA

Education 346,137 154,496,822 66,343 30,461,264 412,480 184,958,086 Agriculture and revenue-generating activities 127,310 56,308,993 - - 127,310 56,308,993 Health 20,209 9,144,575 - - 20,209 9,144,575 Community and production support 124,252 55,447,050 103,755 46,849,904 228,007 102,296,954

- Construction of 3 schools (10 classrooms) - Support for the production and - Support for multi-functional platforms Subtotal 617,908 275,397,440 170,098 77,311,168 788,006 352,708,608

- Construction of 20 latrines transformation of shea butter - Construction of 4 freshwater boreholes - Support for school canteens - Support for vegetable gardens - Installation of one mini-water supply Material Donations - Support for specialized training - Support for beekeeping (AEPS)* with two tap stands Value of 388,214 articles sent 27,391 12,450,455 - Distribution of 10,204 school kits - Support for the production and - Construction of 4 latrines and 2 showers - Distribution of 1,300 solar lamps commercialization of sesame - Assistance for the sanitation activities Transportation costs borne by SEMAFO 65,515 29,779,545 - Support for poultry-raising - Support for sports tournaments - Construction of 2 cereal banks Actual costs to Foundation 3,438 1,562,727 - Follow-up of APE/AME/COGES* training - Construction of 3 grain credit storehouses Subtotal 96,344 43,792,727 - Supply of aggregates for a CEG* - Awareness sessions among artisanal - APE/AME/COGES* training miners on dangers of using chemicals TOTAL 5% 884,350 396,501,335 - Purchase of 40 hand-washing stations - Purchase of 92 bicycles - Construction of a freshwater borehole * Indicated39% amounts do not include all expenses related to charitable projects such as salaries, travel and telecom- munications. The amount invested in projects, excluding 15% $412,480 $127,310 $228,007 material donations, totaled CDN$1,103,735 (FCFA 501, 697,727). See page 34. Education 29% 59,592 people impacted 35,889 people impacted 46,667 people impacted Health Community support Agriculture and RGA 16%

Donations 3% Investment in *AEPS - simplified water supply network charitable *AME - association of teaching mothers projects *APE - association of parents of schoolchildren *CEG - college of general education 5% *COGES - committee for management of schools *CSPS - health and social promotion center 36%

52%

- Cervical cancer prevention - Help for women with obstetric fistula - 388,214 items distributed - Support for autistic children Funds invested - Fence for the CSPS* in Wona in charitable projects and donated items

$20,209 $27,391 $1,131,126 42,593 people impacted 77,643 people impacted (FCFA 514,148,182)

16 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 17 “Construction of the latrines for the school of Yoana has just removed what was our important irritant for us. Imagine a schoolhouse that’s over

10 years old that has never had latrines. The children had to walk far from the school into the wild scrubland to relieve themselves. There is a

significant presence of reptiles within the perimeters of the school…their construction has solved insecurity problems in addition to limiting

children's time wastage when going to the bush to relieve themselves.”

Mr Konkobo, principal of the school of Yoana in the CEB of Kona

DISTRIBUTION OF SCHOOLS KITS “Through its provision of school kits, SEMAFO Foundation enabled us to For seven years, with the objective of helping boost the school start classes properly. In previous years, the distribution of school kits enrolment and success rates, the Foundation has distributed was motivating for some children who did not want to go to school. school kits containing basic supplies that comply with the Because of the school kits, they enrolled themselves. We could say that official list of school supplies distributed nationally as well as the school kits are a catalyst for the keen interest in the school exhibit- a solar lamp for pupils in CM2. Each kit consists of exercise ed by certain children.” books, pens, coloured pencils, a slate, chalk, and a geometry set commensurate with the student’s educational level. Mr. Francis Kassongo, headmaster of the primary school of in the commune of Safané

A total of 10,204 school kits and 1,300 solar lamps were distributed this year in 28 schools. For the second year in a row, the kits were purchased on the local Burkinabè market. “The purchase of school items poses a problem for us parents. I am president of the APE (Association of Parents of Schoolchildren) in my EDUCATION AND TRAINING Results generated: The grant of school kits encourages village and I know that the parents have difficulties acquiring exercise parents to enrol their children in school, which in turn books and other items.” Construction site of the Fobiri CEG increases the literacy rate. The lamps make it easier to do Mr. Karim Koroma, president of APE of home-based assignments and for children to prepare for year- end exams. In 2013, 59 million children of school age were not enrolled in school. In addition, 757 million adults (aged 15 and

over), two-thirds of whom are women, are unable to read and write. Education for all has always been a priority and must remain so if we are to ensure sustainable development. To do so, the Foundation invests more than half of its budget into supporting today’s children to become tomorrow’s adults. 44,985 school kits distributed since 2009 in Burkina Faso 44,985

SCHOOL CANTEEN PROJECT CONSTRUCTION OF SCHOOLS The project, which is now in its fifth year, has been at empowerment stage for the past two years. For this reason, donations have been INVESTMENT capped at 8 tonnes of food per year. The focus is now on training up the APE (associations of parents of schoolchildren) and AME During the year, the Foundation constructed 10 classrooms for (associations of teaching mothers ) in order to maximize their synergies with the COGES (committees for management of schools). The LIST OF PROJECTS three primary and secondary schools, in addition to storehouses, In CAD$ In FCFA APE/AME/COGES/principals of ten schools and a representative from the CEB in Wona received workshop training. offices and latrines. Hand-washing stations were provided, and Boucle du Mouhoun region freshwater boreholes were completed. Extra-curricular activities 11,552 4,455,000 Results generated: For the second year, 10 schools received food donations that enabled them to serve meals to more than 3,000 pupils and teachers. The APE/AME/COGES of eight schools received training that will allow them to better manage school canteens and Boucle du Mouhoun: Construction of a CEG (college of general School Canteens 9,306 3,988,850 general problems in their schools. education) with 4 classrooms and 1 storehouse, 1 office, 1 block Construction of schools 191,896 86,244,336 of 4 latrines, 1 block of 2 latrines and 1 freshwater borehole for School freshwater boreholes 14,306 6,607,100 the village of Fobiri. Construction of a primary school with 3 classrooms fitted with one block of 4 latrines and 1 freshwater Specialized training 14,777 6,492,500 borehole in Missakongo. Latrines 40,485 17,976,775 Hand-washing stations 2,463 1,100,400 Est: Construction of a primary school with 3 class-rooms and 1 School kits and solar lamps 51,541 23,190,225 storehouse, 1 office and 1 block of 4 latrines in the village of Tawori, commune of Partiaga. Bicycle Projects 7,681 3,528,836 Support for AME/APE/COGES 2,130 912,800 Results generated: These achievements enable the educational Est region community in the Boucle du Mouhoun and Est region to better Extra-curricular activities 685 298,000 deal with students. SEMAFO Foundation’s involvement is critically important for both regions. Tree fence 3,890 1,735,000 Construction of a school 61,028 28,090,000 Bicycle Projects 740 338,264 Classrooms built since Total (Tax included) 412,480 184,958,086 72 2009

18 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 19

GUIDANCE FOR AME/APE/COGES BICYCLE PROJECT The Foundation guides APE/AME/COGES so that they can support teachers in their educational role. By creating partnerships with town For the past four years, SEMAFO Foundation has been distributing bicycles to help improve travel conditions for communities in its halls and CEGs, they will be able to mobilise and more easily involve the population for optimal problem-solving. The Foundation’s sector of intervention. In the first year, the project benefited multiple activities such as shea butter, sanitation and deserving students. employees, all of whom were trained last year, followed up with the 48 members of the AME/APE/COGES in Bana and Wona who were As of the second year, however, the operation primarily targets the school environment by easing students’ access to school. trained in the 2014-2015 year. This year, 68 additional members of the AME/APE/COGES from the communes of Bana and Kona were ...... trained in their roles, in the educational system and the links with the SDGs. They were also apprised of techniques of management and Boucle du Mouhoun: This year, the Foundation donated 84 bicycles to children attending 36 primary and secondary schools in Boucle du Mouhoun. deployment of resources as well as the methods of restoration and implementation.

Results generated: The members understood their roles and the need for close collaboration and regular meetings. Each of them was Est: A first experience for the region where 8 bicycles were given to 4 primary and secondary schools. able to identify and list his/her respective role in addition to understanding the principles and the rules governing the operations of an association. It was also noted that schools that had benefited from training made less requests and reduced their expectations. The Results generated: A total of 92 students in primary and secondary schools in Boucle du Mouhoun and in the Est region received a COGES in Bana, , Wona and Yona were responsible for carrying out 80% of the activities included in their budget of $10,015 bicycle as a reward for their good work and to facilitate their travel every day to school. (FCFA 4,552,400).

“The entire family celebrated the day that my daughter received the bike, and we 2 , encouraged her to continue her efforts. I lost my husband in January 2016 and I was SPECIALISED TRAINING thinking of asking my daughter to stop going to school because I could no longer meet both 6 Specialised professional training has always been a concern for “These days, I work as a self-employed laborer, i.e., by sub-contracting family and school expenses. This gesture will encourage me to support her in her sixth year myself out to companies in the building industry. Currently, I am SEMAFO Foundation because economic performance efforts do at the CEG in Wona. My sincerest thanks to the SEMAFO Foundation, and may God reward 226 working on a construction site of a CEG in the town of Gaoua in the you hundredfold.” not seem able to eradicate poverty in Burkina Faso. southwest of Burkina Faso. Things are going quite well. That said, I bicycles have been distributed Consequently, SEMAFO Foundation believes that a critical mass since 2013 in 58 locations would be delighted to work with SEMAFO Foundation if it needed me Mrs. Lolon Koté, mother of Salimata Davou who attends Somona school of human skills has to be created to breed a favourable because it’s thanks to them that I acquired my skills. Thank you again, environment for the establishment of businesses and self- SEMAFO Foundation, for training the men of tomorrow that we are. I employment. will always be grateful to you.”

After helping six students obtain a BEP (diploma of occupational Mr. Soiré Koté, earned a BEP in civil engineering/building 3 years studies) in civil engineering, the Foundation enabled, for the ago. second consecutive year, 6 students from Balé and Mouhoun to obtain professional training in building electricity. Furthermore, another young person who was previously supported in obtaining his BEP in civil engineering, successfully retook his baccalauréat in civil engineering (F4).

Results generated: The six students admitted to the building electricity study program carried out a year of apprenticeship, and one student was accepted into the baccalauréat program in civil engineering (F4).

SUPPORT FOR EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Starting in 2010, the Foundation has been supporting sporting activities in different CEBs (basic education districts). There is strong interest in obtaining the Foundation’s support for the OSEP/C (organization of sport and culture at primary school level) tournaments, as evidenced by the many requests the Foundation receives on a yearly basis. These annual competitions, which are organized by MENA (ministry of education and literacy), serve to identify early sporting and cultural talent...... Boucle du Mouhoun: This year, the OSEP/C in Bana, , Bondoukuy, Kona, Ouarkoye, , Safané and Yaho were supported, in addition to the DRENA (regional districts in education and literacy) in Mouhoun and the DPENA (provincial districts in education and literacy) in Balé in the finals of their favourite sport.

Est: For the first time ever, the CEB in Partiaga received the Foundation’s assistance in organizing its activities.

Results generated: Each CEB received 2 sets of football shirts, 3 balls, drinks, a meal as well as prizes for the best teams. The DRENA in Mouhoun received 6 sets of shirts and 9 balls for the regional final, and the DPENA in Balé obtained 4 sets of shirts and 6 balls for the provincial final.

2 “The Foundation’s support was truly awesome for us. Without the donated shirts, balls, food, drinks and prizes to the tune of $222 (FCFA 100,000), even if the OSEP/C would have been , 6 held, it would not have had the same scope. To be honest, I have been heading up this organization for 7 years now and it’s the first time it’s been so successful. The variety of prizes 6,817

reinforced the pupils’ participation in the sport and to do their best in each match. And, let’s not People impacted

forget the reception (meal and sugary drinks) that attracted them after the match. Everything

was perfect! Thanks to the Foundation.” Thanks to the Foundation’s support, the

competitions enabled 22 villages to celebrate Mr. Luc Sereme, president of OSEP/C of the CEB of Partiaga sport and culture through the OSEP/C

20 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 21 Results generated: Since its launch in 2010, the project has impacted 50 villages and more than 76,000 people. Over the years, villages have been added and others removed since some producers now are able to produce without our help. This suggests that a number of them are proficient in production sequencing and in the application of good production practices. Production is now over 3,427 hectares in 42 villages (39 hectares less than last year, but which produced 200 tonnes more than last year). The grain credit storehouses enabled 500 bags to be harvested: this totalled approximately 40 tonnes of a variety of agricultural produce (sesame and sweet corn in particular) that the producers were able to resell for higher prices on the market with the help of the COOPEC KAYORO, a savings and credit cooperative. Thirty-one producers excelled in 5 different categories and received 12 carts, 12 wheelbarrows, 24 picks, 24 shovels, 24 rakes; and 7 outreach workers received bicycles.

7 “I learned a lot about the role of members, in addition to the difference between a group and an association. There are several groups, but the members mostly don’t understand their different roles. Our group has been in operation for 3 years, but most office members don’t serve their role well, probably because they don’t know how. After this training, the first thing I did was to set up a review meeting for the group with the hope that this training will change our practices.”

Mrs. Yeinambio Coulibaly, president of the Wekazin group in Bondoukuy

“We just want the SEMAFO Foundation to continue to train us and help us organize ourselves. We have a lot of potential in terms of agricultural produce, but our lack of organization limits the scope of our activities. Currently, our ignorance costs us more than anything else.”

Mr. Dassa Yédan, sesame producer

AGRICULTURE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PRODUCTION OF SHEA PRODUCTS Harvesting sesame in Tawori Once Burkina Faso’s third-largest export product, shea butter “We have concerns about shea butter sales, which worries me a lot has been relegated to fourth position by the mining boom and because the women who worked on the export products are waiting to remains a savings mechanism for country women. This year, be paid. That said, we are not going to sit around discouraged; we are 1,202 female collectors from 13 villages participated in the actively investigating new market opportunities at local level. Shea soap is less worrisome; it is a mass-market product. We believe that Sustainable development projects are both stimulating and complex. To ensure their long-term continuity, we invite organic shea butter project. Nuts were collected in 19 areas in citizens to get involved, which allows us to identify their expectations and their commitment to implementing the we could improve our sales by opening a shop for our products in Boucle du Mouhoun over a total surface area of 3,649 Wona, manned by management on a rotating basis, thereby project. This is a determinant factor in the success and continuation of the project. The Foundation also assists the hectares of wild forest. Although shea butter is profitable for redistributing income to the saleswomen. Over the past 12 months, communities by training them not only in evaluating the feasibility of a project, but also in sustainable development the producers, difficulties can arise during its processing. The the 10 members of the management committee already received a issues. nut-drying stage is arduous and has to be done in winter, total of $4,554 (FCFA 2,070,000) in salary, just from the sales made which is a very busy period for the women. The Foundation at the shea production center. If the shea butter products had run assisted the latter by purchasing a filter-press to filter the smoothly, both income and salaries would have been much greater. butter intended for export and by providing sewing lessons so We are mindful of this and are working to respond to the quality issues in order to strengthen current markets and move into new.” SESAME PROJECT that the women can make their own soap packaging. INVESTMENT The production of sesame offers men and women a viable cash Safièta Dao, commercial officer for the Gnogondèmè Group in Yona crop alternative to cotton due to its accessibility and ease of Results generated: In the 2015-2016 year, income of almost LIST OF PROJECTS In CAD$ In FCFA implementation. In the 2015-2016 year, the project was $64,000 (FCFA 29 million) was generated through the sale of extended to 1,955 producers in 42 villages across 6 Boucle du Mouhoun region 7 tonnes of shea butter, 39.4 tonnes of nuts and 1.4 tonnes communes in the Boucle du Mouhoun region. Production Beekeeping Project 24 ,024 10,773,186 of shea nut cakes to international markets, in addition to products for the local markets such as soaps, creams, butter increased from 545 tonnes last year to 733 tonnes this year Poultry-raising project 15,462 7,045,805 over a slightly reduced area under cultivation. The grain credit and lip balms. In six years, the Gnogondèmè Group in Yona Market gardening Project 974 352,057 “warrantage” project, which was launched last year in the has become a reference point in the Boucle du Mouhoun villages of Wakara and Yaho, proved its worth with producers Shea Project 9,556 4,245,337 region in terms of sustainable development and the fight expecting a good year in 2016-2017. In the Est region, Sesame Project 77,294 33,892,608 against poverty. meetings were held in 3 villages to take stock of the sesame Total (Tax included) 127,310 56,308,993 status quo in order to support producers in the Tapoa province. The outlook for the coming years looks very favourable...... Boucle du Mouhoun: This year, we strengthened the grain credit project and continued to follow up with producers and $648,168 Revenue generated by outreach workers. We trained 140 producers in co-operative the sesame project affairs so that they realise that the strength of the group plays (FCFA 294,621,710) an important role in empowering them to succeed in their production cycles and in facing up to buyers. As in previous times, we rewarded the most deserving producers in Balé and Production of 733 tonnes Mouhoun by giving them production tools. of sesame, increase of

35%

22 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 23 BEEKEEPING PROJECT POULTRY-RAISING PROJECT In the 2015-2016 year, the project was extended to 8 additional villages, accounting for 47 beekeepers and their families. In the The poultry-raising project was created at the request of the Siguitimogoson Women’s Group in the village of Somona. When residing in course of the year, we provided equipment (hives, suits, hive tools, smokers, gloves, boots, brushes and comb foundations) to 34 Côte d’Ivoire, the head of the group had visited a poultry project and wanted to reproduce their intensive rearing methods in her village new producers. In addition, the center of Dangouna received honey processing equipment such as a 4-frame extractor, uncapping of Somona. The aim of the project is to help meet the demand for poultry meat. It will also help to: table, a screw press, a 50-kg stainless steel tank for honey storage and a motor tricycle for its many transport needs. The beekeepers were also trained in the use of ephinephrine for allergic reactions resulting from bee stings, as well as in first aid  Integrate the female members of the group economically measures.  Create jobs ......  Produce and sell chicken meat Boucle du Mouhoun: This year, the center collected some 99 “Many people got involved in the beekeeping project in Dangouna  Make chicken manure available in order to improve soil fertilization and agricultural productivity liters of honey, which the producers packaged into 330-ml and supported by SEMAFO Foundation with a view to increasing their  Ensure self-empowerment of the locality through the enhancement of the women’s technical skills 500-ml bottles. This resulted in income of almost $250 (FCFA income through the sale of honey and its derivatives. However, we  Fight against poverty through the distribution of income 500,000). should not lose sight of the fact that apart from the economic side, beekeeping plays a significant role in helping protect the ...... Boucle du Mouhoun: To assist the project, the Foundation built a chicken coop, provided technical production items, in addition to Results generated: There was a real awakening on the part of environment. The pollen that the bees leave on the flowers helps purchasing chicks, meal, vaccination and training the 20 female members of the group in modern poultry-raising techniques. To all the beekeepers to the potential for allergic reactions as a improve agricultural productivity. It’s principally the environmental deepen their appropriation of the knowledge transmitted through theoretical classes, a study visit was organized to a series of farms in result of bee stings. In the exchanges between initial and new benefits that persuaded me to sign up to the project.” Bobo-Dioulasso, thus allowing the poultry raisers to be better equipped. beekeepers, it was observed that there was greater awareness as to the role of bees in the environment and in the survival of Mr. Félix Dao, new beekeeper from the village of Bissa the human race.

MARKET GARNENING PROJECT As part of its plan to improve the villagers’ diet, SEMAFO Foundation supported the village of Yona in market gardening. Through the development of a one-hectare lot, the Foundation also assisted the village of Fobiri in the commune of Yaho in 2014-2015. Market gardening is viewed very positively in both villages and as an activity offering multiple advantages...... Boucle du Mouhoun: Once the infrastructure had been established and the producers had been organized, the Fobiri gardeners received training and subsidies in the form of seeds (cabbage, lettuce, tomato, onion, carrot and cucumber), in addition to fertilizer and small-scale tools (8 watering cans, 8 rakes, 8 spades, 8 pitchforks, 4 cords, 4 wheelbarrows and 4 sprinklers). The garden produced its first vegetables this year, a portion of which was sold to the restaurant in SEMAFO’s Mana Mine living quarters.

Results generated: This year, the 2 villages achieved good production results with cumulative income of $7,645 (FCFA 3,475,100), $1,703 (FCFA 774,700) of which was generated by Fobiri and $5,942 (FCFA 2,700,400) by the Yona garden.

“It was my first time gardening. I learned how to set up a nursery garden, how to transplant, tend and treat seedlings. After applying what the 2 teacher taught us, I earned $100 (FCFA 44,850) including my own consumption. With this money, I can make small purchases for my children. Thank you, SEMAFO Foundation.”

Mrs. Fatimata Séré from the village of Fobiri

$7,645 in revenue generated (FCFA 3,475,100) by the two gardens

MARKET GARDENING “It had never been done before in Fobiri. While we are all farmers, it was the village’s first-ever experience with market gardening. Thanks to the Foundation’s training, we were well-prepared for the activity. The seeds grew well. I encourage the gardeners to continue applying the knowledge from the training sessions over the coming seasons. I believe that we Fobiri gardeners had a good production year. I, personally, made $57 (FCFA 26,000), and that’s not counting all the vegetables my family ate and those I gifted to my friends. I truly believe that our first experience was a roaring success, and I would like to thank SEMAFO Foundation again for it.” Mr. Seydou Blégna, general secretary of the Fobiri market gardeners

24 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 25 Results generated: In addition to successfully sinking 5 boreholes this year, SEMAFO Foundation also installed a mini-water supply network in the village of Wona that has initially been fitted with 2 tap stands. This gives the village of 5,000 inhabitants greater access to fresh drinking water. The latter brings to 26 the number of boreholes sunk on June 30, 2016 by the Foundation in Burkina Faso.

MULTIFUNCTIONAL PLATFORM (MFPs) This piece of machinery, which is fitted with an engine, a mill and a husker, remains a top priority for the Foundation, because it brings energy into the heart of the village in addition to freeing women up from domestic chores and enabling them to pursue revenue- generating activities. The 2015-2016 year focused on assisting and using to full advantage the 10 existing MFPs. Four MFPs received training, in addition to fuel and small equipment such as power belts. At the same time, to encourage the groups like the village of Bissa that are already operating well, we awarded them a freezer so that the women could pursue revenue-generating activities such as the sale of water and fresh juice. Note that some MFPs experienced difficulties in terms of management or problems like in Dangouna, Sio and Yona that led to extended stoppages. The most productive MFP was in Fobiri, which, in spite of technical issues, yielded the highest return of income of $2,270 (FCFA 1,077,250). All groups operating MFPs will be monitored more closely and will receive extra training in the 2016-2017 year.

Results generated : The 10 MFPs, which have been established in four communes in the Boucle du Mouhoun region, generated overall turnover of $4,278 (FCFA 1,944,570) in 2015-2016.

SANITATION PROJECT Officially launched in November 2011 by the SANYA group, the “It’s not an easy activity. When we pick up the waste, disputes often arise with the traders who include a lot of sand and ash, thus weighing Wona sanitation project, commonly called the Green Brigade, the contents down and making it hard to empty. We regularly share continues its grassroots efforts. The project aims to establish COMMUNITY AND PRODUCTION SUPPORT Inauguration of the simplified mini-water best practices in sweeping with households so that they avoid adding better collection and processing of household waste, to supply network in Wona earth to real waste. It doesn’t always go down as well as we’d like it to, improve the appearance of the village of Wona, while helping but we continue our awareness-building efforts. When we’re out and reduce the incidence of diseases linked to unhealthy living about, we often meet very courteous people who encourage us in our conditions such as dysentery and diarrhoeal illnesses. daily work.” According to the United Nations Development Program’s report on the 2016 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is estimated that in 2015, 663 million people did not have access to clean drinking water and that 2.4 billion people ...... Mrs. Fatoumata Blagna, member of the Green Brigade Results generated: The Green Brigade’s initiatives are of did not have access to improved sanitation facilities. SEMAFO Foundation supports the communities and helps im- prove their living conditions through projects addressing their basic needs. enormous help to the village in terms of sanitation. There has “The members of the Green Brigade broached me about using a small been a gradual awareness of it importance by key village dustbin. As I didn’t have a solution for the waste that I produce, the resource persons as evidenced by the contribution made by Green Brigade’s regular waste disposal makes me happy. I pay a the CVD (village development committee) in Wona to help run monthly fee of $1.10 (FCFA 500) for the service. Since becoming the Green Brigade: in 2015-2016, the committee awarded it involved with the Green Brigade, I have managed to pay my fee and I $55 (FCFA 25,000). really encourage them to continue their work.” FRESHWATER BOREHOLES INVESTMENT Access to fresh drinking water is a national priority for Burkina Mr. Jean-Baptiste Baya, trader-shopkeeper

Faso. For 7 years now, SEMAFO Foundation has been LIST OF PROJECTS in CAD$ in FCFA consistently adding access in the Boucle du Mouhoun and Est region. Boucle du Mouhoun region . . . . . Sanitation Project 1,489 688,750 Boucle du Mouhoun: In 2015-2016, four freshwater boreholes Borehole and mini-water supply network 116,035 51,754,200 were drilled in the villages of Blé, Missakongo, Fobiri and MFP Project 6,728 3,004,100 Datomo. Est region Furthermore, during this period, SEMAFO Foundation installed a Grain bank 64,120 29,350,401 simplified mini-water supply system in the village of Wona fitted Latrines and showers 19,051 8,137,403 with 2 tap stands. Three additional tap stands are envisaged for Freshwater boreholes 4,447 2,032,100 the year 2016-2017. When complete, the network will comprise Sensitizing artisanal miner on dangers 5 tap stands that will meet basic social services such as health of using chemicals 16 137 7 330 000 and education. Total (Tax included) 228,007 102,296,954 Est: A freshwater borehole was installed in the village of Natongou.

freshwater boreholes 26 built since 2009

26 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 27 LATRINES AND SHOWERS In addition to the numerous latrines conferred to schools, the Foundation also installed a block of 4 latrines and 2 showers for the CRS (republic security company) in Diapaga in the Est region, which will improve health and working conditions for the security officers...... Results generated: The CRS of Diapaga debuted its operations in January 2016.

RAISING AWARENESS OF DANGERS OF USING CHEMICALS IN ARTISANAL MINING Often criticized for its negative effect on people’s health and on the environment, artisanal mining is seen by the government of Burkina Faso as a tool in the fight against poverty. It is therefore important to underpin the activity with regular monitoring...... Est: The program targeted all the parties involved on the artisanal mining site in Boungou. Participants were informed, sensitized and trained in the dangers of using cyanide and mercury; the aim is to raise awareness regarding the detrimental effects on mankind, animals, plants and the environment and to bring about a change of behavior.

Results generated: The 270 participants were apprised of the dangers associated with using cyanide and mercury, the symptoms of contamination and measures to take in emergencies. They also learned how to use the protective equipment given by the Foundation. Furthermore, through its initiative, SEMAFO Foundation helped establish a climate of trust as well as good relations between the artisanal mining community and the mine under construction.

GRAIN BANKS Due to the installation of the Boungou Mine in the Est region, some communities will be resettled in new areas. At the same time, the HEALTHCARE surface area these people regularly use for grain production will decline. As a result, the Boungou Mine, which is legally obliged to Food donation to RAMA Foundation compensate the affected population, was approached by some parties interested in obtaining full or partial compensation in the form of food over a period of 5 years, instead of being compensated in cash. It is against this backdrop that two grain banks were built to accommodate the request. Management committees will be set up to ensure the smooth running of the banks...... The UNDP estimates that between 1990 and 2015, mortality rates for women fell by 44% to an estimated 226 deaths Results generated: By constructing the grain banks, SEMAFO Foundation is ensuring food self-sufficiency of the communities in the per 100,000 births. We are still far from achieving the SDGs that target 70 deaths per 100,000 births by 2030. Their Boungou and Natongou areas. goal can be reached if we provide women with basic health services. To this end, SEMAFO Foundation implements preventative projects that impact the public at large, in particular projects focusing on women and their reproductive health. CROCHET LESSONS The women in the Est region learned how to crochet plastic milk bags from Canada. In addition to being thicker than the black plastic sachets used in Burkina Faso, the bags have mosquito-repellent and cooling properties. Production of these thick mats enables women to lay their children on the ground in safe conditions. SUPPORT FOR THE PREVENTION OF CERVICAL INVESTMENT CANCER ...... LIST OF PROJECTS in CAD$ in FCFA Boucle du Mouhoun: Training was dispensed to the women This year was our final year of involvement in the cervical of the RAMA Foundation. cancer prevention project that we have been supporting for five Boucle du Mouhoun region years with our partners SOGC (Society of Obstetricians and Fence for a CSPS* 18,215 8,251,575 Est: For the second year, three women from the village of Gynaecologists of Canada) and SOGOB (Society of Obstetricians Support for autistic children 951 431,000 Boungou who had already been trained by the general and Gynaecologists of Burkina Faso). Activities were minimal given the geopolitical situation. However, two large-scale Support for women living with 1,043 462,000 manager, gave lessons. obstetrical fistula supervisory activities were held in 10 different CHRs (regional Results generated: Some 50 women from Natongou were hospital centers), and screening was carried out on March 8, Total (Tax included) 20,209 9,144,575 2016 in the villages of Bana, Kona and Wona, which are introduced to crochet by their peers in the village of * health and social promotion center Boungou. The women have acquired a savoir-faire that goes located in the Foundation’s areas of intervention. We continue beyond the making of mats. to support the project with SOGOB, because in spite of the government’s decision to offer free cervical cancer screening, the process for setting up the detection system is still in progress.

Results generated: This year, 2,031 diagnoses were carried out and in line with the objectives, one of the primary aims was met, i.e., screening for cervical cancer is now an integral part of 42,000 minimum baseline controls carried out in health establishments. The decision was taken by the government of People impacted by our health projects since 2009 in Burkina Faso Burkina Faso and has been in operation since April 1, 2016.

28 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 29 2 “I heard about the cervical cancer screening program from the town crier in the village of Nana. As I’ve never gone for screening, it was a good opportunity for me. So, I went to be screened at the CSPS in Kona to find out my state of health. It’s a great idea that should be encouraged because it enables country women who don’t have the means, to be screened for cervical cancer. We invite SEMAFO Foundation to increase these types of initiatives for country women. Thank you so much, SEMAFO Foundation.”

Mrs. Noélie Séré, assistant teacher at Nana

SUPPORT FOR WOMEN LIVING WITH OBSTETRICAL FISTULA SEMAFO Foundation supports women from the RAMA Foundation nursing home located in Sabtoana, to the south of Ouagadougou. After their surgery, women generally stay at the home for three months to enable their checkups. During this time, they carry out revenue- generating activities, such as producing soaps and creams for the center, to partially offset the cost of their care.

SEMAFO Foundation helps improve the quality of life for women awaiting surgery or in rehabilitation by providing food. During the 2015- 2016 year, the women received $1,100 (FCFA 500,000)’s worth of rice, corn, oil and sugar.

Results generated: SEMAFO Foundation’s assistance paid for 80 days of meals for the residents of RAMA Foundation. This allowed the desperate women to have a relatively decent standard of living during their medical stay in Sabtoana. Furthermore, the training in soap and cream production continues to have a lasting impact on the women as shown by the income of $770 (FCFA 350,050) that they generated. This amount was also a great help in caring for the women during their stay and is an important activity that promotes their empowerment.

SUPPORT FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN Through training and donations, SEMAFO Foundation has “Because of the material and technical training, our ability to care for the been supporting autistic children for several years. As autism children and our results obtained have significantly improved.” He added, is unrecognized in Africa, the centers that care for these “Thanks to the guidance from SEMAFO Foundation, two pupils from Les children are poorly supported and because of their specific Victoires school will be able to join the second year of a regular primary character, are very expensive. school in the school year 2016-2017. Were it not for some behavioral issues that made us cautious, they could even have gone into a CEI or CEII Last year, SEMAFO Foundation donated school supplies to the class.” 3A school including colour ink cartridges, multi-coloured carton paper for printing pictograms, laminating pouches, Mr. Ibrahim Zoungrana, teacher at Les Victoires, specialised school gouache paint, brushes and other supply items. Dolls and plush toys were also provided to the school. The dolls are used in learning exercises on the human body and on everyday activities such as getting dressed and undressed.

FENCING OFF A HEALTH AND SOCIAL PROMOTION CENTER (CSPS) In the 2015-2016 year, SEMAFO Foundation’s support included improving visiting conditions for patients and work conditions for personnel...... Boucle du Mouhoun: A 550-meter long wire fence was erected around the CSPS in Wona to prevent the uncontrolled crossing of the CSPS yard, which disturbs patients’ visits and working personnel.

2 “Thanks to the fence, we can carry out our work in better conditions. I am grateful to SEMAFO Foundation for having taken the safety of health personnel and patients at the CSPS in Wona into consideration. This also protects the health and safety of patients and personnel. Since the fence has been put up, cyclists, motorcyclists and animals no longer roam at will through the CSPS yard. “

Mrs. Mariam Barry, certified nurse at CSPS of Wona

30 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 31 Commitments Our partners 2016-2017 Here and abroad

Support for the production of PARTNERS IN CANADA  - Collège Montmorency, department of fire safety shea-based products - Développement International Desjardins - The Foundation MMS (Mère du Monde en Santé)/Healthy Mother of the World) - KARITEX, La Maison du Karité Support for the production of - Health Partners International Canada  - CESO-SACO (Canadian Executive Service Organisation) - SEMAFO Inc. honey and sesame - SOGC (The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada)

 Support for market gardens PARTNERS IN BURKINA FASO - ANPHV (national association of green bean producers) - Association Burkinabé des Sages-femmes et des Maïeuticiens SERVING Construction of latrines - Association KIMI, an association for preventative health assistance THE FOUNDATION  - COOPEC (Savings and Credit Cooperative) KAYORO places great value on the THE POPULATION - Fédération des Caisses Populaires du Burkina Faso - Fondation SUKA, active in the fields of health and education relationships it develops with its Sanitation of the - OCADES CARITAS (Catholic Organization for Development and Solidarity) partners. “ It is literally true that you can  - SEMAFO Burkina Faso By working together, the SEMAFO village of Wona - SOGOB (Société des Gynécologues et Obstétriciens du Burkina) Foundation believes that we all succeed best and quickest by - State of Burkina Faso helping others to succeed.” - TOTAL Burkina hold the potential for change in Distribution of school kits - WSA-EAA Burkina (Eau et Assainissement pour l’Afrique) our hands.  (Napoléon Hill) Support for extra-curricular OTHER INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS - Jhpiego, for women’s needs  - PNUD (United Nations Development Program) activities - SNV (Société Néerlandaise de Développement), Dutch development organisation - TOTAL - Zonta International, advancing the status of women worldwide  Construction of 10 classrooms

Etc.

32 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 33 Financial statements For the periods ended June 30, 2016 and June 30,2015

2016 2015 2016 2015 REVENUES CAD$ CAD$ ASSETS CAD$ CAD$

Contribution from SEMAFO inc. 1,028,172 856,276 Cash 479,527 410,223 Income generated by beneficiaries General contributions 261,090 112,656 General contributions receivable 3,590 3,490 of our projects in Burkina Faso since 2009 Income provided by communities 1,858 Accounts receivable 14,411 15,707 Total 1,289,262 970,790 Prepaid expenses 19,744 24,989 $5,491,327 Subtotal 517,272 454,409 (FCFA 2,496,057,727) EXPENSES Property and Equipment 133,424 77,360 Charitable Costs Total 650,696 531,769

Projects 788,007 522,307 Professional fees, salaries and benefits 209,642 211,935 LIABILITIES Depreciation of fixed assets 35,909 25,317 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 147,248 85,591 Travel expenses 11,242 28,968 Deferred general contributions 1,446 2,066 Costs related to transport and storage of material donations 3,438 4,568 Subtotal 148,694 87,657 Rent 13,178 14,113 Awareness–raising 15,205 11,762 NET ASSETS Information technology expenditures 3,907 6,347 Not assigned 502,002 444,112 During 2015-2016 Maintenance of rolling stock 10,431 5,213 Total 650,696 531,769 SEMAFO FOUNDATION Office supplies 2,686 2,803 Improved the quality of Telecommunications expenses 1,960 2,604 N. B. The data presented on this page have been taken from the audited financial statements and life of more than summarized. Exchange rate gains and losses 7,129 5,793 268,700 persons Other 1,001 1,303 Subtotal 1,103,735 843,033 Administrative Costs Salaries and benefits 97,511 84,323 Professional fees 19,187 15,504 Rent 3,257 3,361 Depreciation of fixed assets 1,095 1,379 Banking fees 1,119 1,866 MANAGEMENT REPORT Office supplies 785 612 The financial statements have been the subject of a report by the Foundation’s auditor,

Liability insurance 1,506 1,506 Pricewaterhouse Coopers s.r.l./s.e.n.c.r.l, chartered accountants. Due to the difficulty in

Telecommunication fees 278 418 determining the fair market value of contributions received in the form of equipment and services,

they have not been reflected in the financial statements. Information technology expenditures 702 1,063 Other 2,197 2,309 The Foundation’s management maintains a system of internal controls, designed to ensure that the accounts reflect its operations. For the 2015-2016 year, the Foundation received and Subtotal 127,637 112,341 distributed material donations valued at $27,391 excluding transport. Including material

Total 1,231,372 955,374 donations, 92% of expenses relate to charitable projects. $863,259

$843,033 $1,103,735 Excess of revenue over expenses 57,890 15,416 2013-2014 2014-2015 2015-2016 UNALLOCATED ASSETS AT THE BEGINNING OF THE PERIOD 444,112 428,696 Complete financial statements are available on: UNALLOCATED ASSETS AT THE END OF THE PERIOD 502,002 444,112 http://fondationsemafo.org/about/947-2/?lang=en Investment in sustainable development projects in Burkina Faso and in Niger (2013-2014)

34 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016 35 SEMAFO Foundation 100, Alexis-Nihon blv. 7th floor Saint-Laurent (Quebec) Canada H4M 2P3 Tel 514 744-4408 Toll-free 1 888 744-4408 Fax 514 744-2291 [email protected] www.fondationsemafo.org

36 SEMAFO Foundation—Annual Report 2015-2016