The word “talibe” is used in Senegal for children studying in ‘Daaras’ and living on the street. They are either homeless, sent by their parents to study Quran or live in the poorest families. But even though free schooling options do exist and free “Daaras” (which are the equivalent of religious school) some families simply cannot afford to take care of the basics a child need to grow up. The option of a coin tossed by a stranger is better than nothing for these children. They sometimes even get physically abused by their masters when they do not bring certain amount of money. Talibe kids are beggars, walking around with money collecting pots, mumbling prayers and extending their palms inside open car windows stopping in traffic, in hope of a penny. Some of them disappear, get lost and are barely noticed by the person who supposedly takes care of them (the religious matser).
“Talibes” spend even their nights outside, in danger and exposed to all predators included pedophiles. Talibes are poorly fed and suffer from health problems arising from inadequate nutrition. They beg for for food during break fast, lunch and diner going from house to house. The most basic necessities of life for those who cannot afford them PLEASE help us help these children to have a better life.
