ACCUEIL - EN - ubbibunt

WHO ARE WE?

The fondation

We are a Senegalese organization and we operate in three areas we consider crucial: Agriculture, Education and Inclusion. We believe that self-sufficiency, knowledge and sharing are the conditions for the emergence of a strong and independent Africa. Our center, which is called “Ubbi Bunt,” which means “opening doors” or “conquest” in Wolof, aims to be a space for the exchange of knowledge and the sharing of energy for a fairer and more humane world.

The Team

Sali: formatrice developpement communautaire

Our values

Our approach is first and foremost about strengthening social ties through sharing and transferring skills. This is why we chose a cross-disciplinary approach combining land-based activities and education. We began this project alone, without outside input. We are proud of the progress we have made, and today we aim to develop a system and an ethic whose impact we see every day. Our project is based on openness and the circulation of transformative ideas according to a concept we call “actopia.” We are in a process of reflecting while acting. This is the spirit of Ubbi Bunt.

PROJECTS

AGRICULTURE

Solid foundations for sustainable development

Infrastructure are the foundation of any thriving community. In Kantene and its surrounding areas, we are working to build and renovate essential infrastructures, including schools, health centers, roads, and water supply systems. These projects aim to improve living conditions while simultaneously creating local jobs.

We believe in infrastructures adapted to the real needs of the people, designed to last and to integrate harmoniously with the environment. For example, our multipurpose building project will serve as a classroom, a meeting place, and a cultural space, thus addressing multiple community needs.

Community Development

An inclusive and participatory approach

Development can only be sustainable if it is driven by the community itself. That is why we rely on a participatory approach, where every member of the community is involved in the decisions and actions.

Our community garden, temporary housing, and health insurance fund projects are designed to strengthen social bonds and create a sense of belonging. We also encourage the empowerment of women and youth by offering them training and employment opportunities. Our organization distributes labeled fair trade products made by women through the “Ubbi Bunt”branding project. Our fair trade shop shop offers locally produced soap, honey, fruits, and vegetables.

We believe in development that starts with local needs and builds upon the available strengths and resources.

"Daara" is a Wolof word for school.

This project is called “Daara Kantene.” We are located in a semi-rural area where access to education remains problematic. We have implemented a tutoring program for children. We provide homework help, donate school supplies, and conduct early learning activities. Since the program is based on the farm, the children learn in a fun way how to care for the land and animals. We want to maintain this approach, which is consistent with our philosophy.

Health and Environment

A healthy ecosystem for fulfilling lives

Health and the environment are inseparable. A healthy environment is the foundation of good health, and vice versa. We act on two fronts:

Health: Through our partnership with the Santa Yalla mutual health organization, we provide affordable health coverage for children and their families. Furthermore, we educate communities on fundamental health practices and preventative measures.

Environment: We are fighting against the degradation of local ecosystems by promoting sustainable agricultural practices, reintroducing endangered plant species, and creating community green spaces. Our Plant Bank is a concrete example of this commitment.

We believe in a balanced approach, where environmental preservation goes hand in hand with the well-being of the people.

Education

The key to autonomy and emancipation

Education is at the heart of our vision. We believe that an educated community is a community capable of taking charge of itself and building its future. Our actions in this area include:

– Educational support for children, with afterschool assistance programs and developmental activities

– Adult education, particularly in sustainable agriculture and project management.

– Building educational infrastructure, like the multipurpose hut, to offer a learning-friendly environment.

Our aim is to make education a catalyst for social change, allowing each individual to gain the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to their community’s development.