Regreening Africa and The Legacy of Professor Wangari Maathai

Maathai, the first African woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, in 2004, was founder of the Green Belt Movement.  This movement works at reforesting Kenya, stopping soil erosion and providing firewood for families by paying poor women to plant trees. She passed away on Sep. 25.

Wangari Maathai

Throughout the African continent, trees and forests are being harvested for firewood and timber.  Many nations are experiencing the results and side-effects of deforestation and loss of vegetation in the form of torrential flooding (resulting in loss of life and property), land being washed away, warmer temperatures etc.

  

A vivid depiction of deforestation and its impact can be seen a new movie OKA!.  In this movie, the Bayaka Pygmies of Central Africa live in harmony with their environment, but this serenity is threatened mercilessly by deforestation and poachers.  Visit the Facebook page for more info: www.facebook.com/OKAMovie

Maathai left behind a great legacy and recommended actions that must be implemented to reverse this trend.  A failure to do this would affect all - including the poorest of the poor who depend on the environment and natural resources.  Recommended actions by Maathai and the movement include the sustained use and planting of more trees, the setting up and application of environmental laws and laws governing commerce in natural resources, addressing of land grabbing, and sustainable charcoal production. Following these actions will regreen Africa and preserve the environment for future generations.

 

 

Families in Sierra Leone face unprecedented challenges due to rising costs. Inflation makes it difficult for them to afford basic food staples such as rice, cooking oil, and onions.

Extending a helping hand can alleviate a significant burden and provide essential relief to the less fortunate.

Help provide relief by donating today!

Help provide relief food

Give the Gift of Joy This Holiday Season 🎁


You can light up a child's life in Africa this holiday season. Imagine the joy of a young girl opening her very first book or a boy receiving a backpack filled with school supplies to fuel his dreams. For many children, a holiday gift isn't just a moment of happiness – it’s a message of hope, love, and possibility.

At Develop Africa, we believe every child deserves to feel special, especially during the holidays. But for too many children in underserved communities, the season comes and goes without even a small token of celebration. With your help, we can change that.

A donation of just $25 can provide a meaningful gift – a backpack, school supplies, or even a toy – to a needy child. Your generosity will show them that someone far away cares deeply about their future and happiness.

Make this holiday season unforgettable for a child. Please donate now to our Holiday Gift for a Child campaign and be part of a life-changing moment. Together, we can spread joy, ignite hope, and make the holidays magical for children in Africa.