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After receiving a scholarship to study in Türkiye, Traore Taoufic Kassa returned to his native Togo inspired by Turkish generosity. Today, he leads humanitarian projects across his country, delivering aid and opening water wells through a charity he founded.
Born into a poor family in Sokode, a central city in Togo, Kassa pursued Islamic education under limited circumstances. His life changed in 2011 when he earned a place in the Türkiye Diyanet Foundation’s (TDV) International Theology Undergraduate Program.
He spent a total of eight years in Türkiye, studying at Bursa Uludag University—first completing Arabic and Turkish preparatory courses, then earning his undergraduate and master’s degrees in theology and religious history.
“The Turkish people’s generosity, warmth, and hospitality left a deep mark on me,” Kassa told Anadolu Agency.
Upon returning home four years ago, Kassa married and entered the world of commerce. Yet his ties with Türkiye remained strong. Determined to emulate the compassion he had witnessed, he established a nonprofit organization to assist the needy in Togo.
He now collaborates with fellow Türkiye-educated students and former teachers to coordinate aid deliveries from Turkish nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). His charity not only distributes food and supplies but also drills wells and supports education initiatives.
Kassa says his time in Türkiye changed his worldview: “I am in love with Türkiye. I spent the most meaningful and productive days of my life there. I met amazing people and experienced a culture of compassion.”
He shared that the people of Togo hold Türkiye in high regard: “Here, the Muslim community deeply respects Türkiye. It is known for its kindness. Through water projects, scholarships, and seasonal aid like Ramadan and Qurban distributions, Türkiye continues to stand by our side.”
By acting as a volunteer ambassador, Kassa now plays a vital role in strengthening people-to-people ties between Türkiye and Togo.
“Thanks to Turkish philanthropists, we are spreading happiness. I ask to be seen as your volunteer ambassador here. I’m grateful I went to Türkiye and met such wonderful people.”
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