Africulture
​​How do we help?
​
Our team of analysts has developed a list of places in need. We search that list to find the countries that are the most accessable, geographically and politically. We then get in contact with locals via the internet to tell them about our services and see if they are interested in working together. This isn't always possible, so sometimes we have to send a team in to conduct field work. If the conditions are right, and the area wants to work with us, we tailor a plan of action specifically for the location.
Our plan of action is a very detailed design, but there are some main components to it. These include, but are not limited to: what food to grow, what easements must be drawn up, who will work, where they will be housed, and where they will work. Additionally, we create a framework for trade agreements between countries and local villages. From there, we try to get other organizations to move into the same areas that we are helping, such as Pencils of Promise and Aqua Africa, so that we the chance of economic growth and overall sustainabilty is greatly increased.
The plan becomes finalized after about six months of delliberation. That is when we start purchasing assets and preparing our workers at home. A group of volunteers, many of whom are graduate students working as interns, travels to the area with one of the executive directors. After their arrival, a community meeting is held and the team explains what the plan is, how it will benefit the village, and answers any questions that arise.
The farm owners, and all of those that will be involved, are taught how to use the new farming equipment they will be given. They will be educated on sustainable farming practices, given access to high quality seeds, and taught efficent farming tactics. We then provide business planning services. We help the farmers prepare business plans and explain how they work. We also provide them with opportunities to receive loans, and to take a training course on loan repayments and market pricing.
When all farmers have been educated, and a suffient amount of resources are ready to be put to use, we get to work. We build irrigation systems, create roads, plant crops, and continue interacting with the people to learn more about their lifestyles. This cultural exchange is the process that our members enjoy most. "Experiencing and embracing cultures from around the world, and showing people that they can adopt modern practices without forfeiting old traditions, is probably the most important thing that Africulture does." -DM, CEO
