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The PAO presented a check for $5,000 to Alpha Di, well-known Nigerien haut couturier and organizer of the biennial FIMA which is being held in Niamey December 1 to 6, 2003. FIMA promotes Africa’s creative spirit in fashion, music and the arts. This 4th FIMA is also sponsoring an HIV/AIDS Education program (on December 1 – AIDS Day), an AGOA Forum in order to inform Nigerien entrepreneurs of trade opportunities with the U.S., and sharing information on the plight of “Femmes Fistuleuses” (pregnancies in early puberty girl-children).
FIMA is a high profile event in Niger. It was opened by the Prime Minster; the First Lady was patron of the AIDS evening fund-raising concert. The U.S. mission has been recognized as a major sponsor for its collaboration with Alpha Di on the AIDS education and AGOA training forum; the PD grant was in support of both these issues. American doctors have also been helping with surgery to aid young “Femmes Fistuleuses” victims.
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