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The Fousena Fund was launched in March, 2006, in memory of Fousena Tchala, the sister of our founder, who passed away in November, 2005 of complications during the birth of her second child. Alaffia designates 5 percent of their opening store orders to GACE's Fousena fund, to be used to purchase medical materials and medicines for women's clinics in Togo and to conduct community training programs in prenatal care. |
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Shea trees in central Togo and other areas of West Africa are seriously threatened due to human needs for fuelwood and charcoal production. Historically, these trees have been protected since they are a source of valuable shea nuts. However, increasing population pressure and needs for cooking fuel are taking their toll on shea trees. GACE and the Agbanga Karite Group have begun a program to encourage shea tree conservation and planting in Togolese communities. |
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In January, 2005 we initiated our Bicycles for Education program. We are gathering used, functional bicycles in the United States to distribute to students in Togo. These bicycles are targeted for individuals whose families cannot afford to buy a bicycle and who must therefore walk substantial distances each day to attend school. Student recipients will complete a training session on the benefits of bicycles as alternative transportation and basic bicycle maintenance. |
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The future of Africa and the world rests with our children, and it is essential for them to have access to the skills and knowledge necessary to live in today's complicated and changing world. GACE is working together with the Agbanga Karite Group and Alaffia Fair Trade Shea Butter to provide needed school supplies to schools and students in their communities. |
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Unrefined shea butter is a valuable natural resource for West Africa and can be an important tool in empowering local communities. However, most shea butter on the market in the United States and Europe is not fairly traded. The women who gather shea nuts and hand craft this remarkable oil receive only a tiny fraction of the final price. GACE is actively educating shea producers and consumers about the importance of fairly trading this indigenous African resource. |
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Following our goal to focus on education and empowerment of young Africans, we undertook another school project in May 2005. We donated and installed new metal roofs on two school buildings in Agborode, Togo. These rural schools were built by community members and previously had traditional straw roofs. While straw roofs are adequate, they must be replaced every two or three years. The donated roof should last 15 years, and the school rooms are brighter. |
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In order to mitigate current deforestation in our communities, the Global Alliance for Community Empowerment (GACE) has begun a tree planting project. We purchase young trees and distribute them to small towns and villages. This is a perpetual project and we would like to expand it throughout West Africa. |
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