While living in an already economically depressed part of the world, the Togolese may not have been hit as hard by the economic downtown seizing the world's markets today—but their need is persistent. Struggling to meet their most basic diet and sanitation needs, many Togolese parents still recognize the need to educate their children—as a means to a better life.Afele was founded by a group of primarily Kabiye farmers who came from the northern Togo in search of more fertile land. Within the past two decades, they settled in the outskirts of Kaboli and have worked hard to develop their community. Since the closest primary school is six kilometers away, in Kaboli, they collect funds each year to hire a teacher and maintain essential school supplies. This expense leaves little money to build a proper school building and classes are currently held under a flimsy straw structure.
My fellow volunteer, Golda Calonge, is posted in Afele. During my first year of Peace Corps service, I was posted in Kaboli. As we could easily bike to one and another's post, Golda and I frequently worked together. I felt as welcomed in Afele as I did in Kaboli. Therefore, I have a strong and personal interest to help Golda and the people of Afele to raise funds and build a primary school.
When the economic system is based on subsistence farming, the typical Togolese family has limited funds to spend on clothing or schooling for their children. This economic situation often forces a family to choose between sending a son or a daughter to school. More often, the decision process favors the son. Sadly, this also contributes to child trafficking. Children with little education have limited views of their future. Traffickers then take advantage of their situation and convince the children to follow them as the only means to earn more money. The Washington Post recently featured Togo in an article about child trafficking.
The new school would not only benefit the small village of Afele, but also the children of even smaller villages surrounding Afele. So if you have some holiday spirit leftover and are willing to contribute a little bit of money to a concrete cause, I invite you to visit this webpage and learn more about Golda's project, www.peacecorps.gov/contribute You will see the project listed under “Togo” and “Golda Calonge” or project no. 693-332. You can also participate in the cause through Facebook: “Help Golda & Peace Corps Build a School in Africa”
The people of this village are very ambitious and working hard for the future of their children. They would appreciate any of your attention—whether it be money or taking the time to pass on their dream to others.
Thank You & Happy Holidays
