Bantaba
The Bantaba Project is a foundational development initiative representing the next phase in the growth of our multifunctional career and educational center. At its core, it is a project about people, relationships, opportunities, and the future.
Bantaba draws inspiration from an ancient tradition in which people gathered under trees, in the shade, to discuss, make decisions, celebrate, and learn. The community existed in the shade — and the shade was the community. Today’s Bantaba preserves this spirit while responding to the modern needs of children and young people in The Gambia.
Location
Brufut Ghana Town, The Gambia
Duration
The project began in December 2025 and is ongoing. Expected completion by September 2026.
Objective
To create a covered, multifunctional outdoor space that serves as a safe educational, social, and community hub while supporting well-being, cultural life, and local self-sufficiency.
Beneficiaries
Children, youth, families, the local community, and local workers in Brufut, The Gambia.
Activities
Fundraising and planning, construction of the Bantaba structure, interior and outdoor setup, launch of educational and community programs.
Impact
Enhanced well-being of children and youth.
Safe Learning Space: Improved access to safe learning spaces
Long-Term Sustainability: stronger community connections, support for the local economy, preservation of cultural heritage.
Objective
The main objective is to create a covered, multifunctional outdoor space that serves as:
An Educational Center
Bantaba will host a wide range of programs, including creative and music workshops, summer camp activities, entrepreneurship education, basic digital skills, and practical handcraft skills — all under one roof, in the shade.A Community Social Space
It will be a place where parents, teachers, local leaders, and children can gather, sit together, discuss matters, and strengthen social bonds.An Environment for Protection and Well-being
In The Gambia, shade is a precious resource. Bantaba will provide a safe refuge during extreme heat and a dry shelter during the rainy season, ensuring uninterrupted activities of the career-educational center.A Space for Celebrations and Tradition
The space will host events, performances, cultural gatherings, and especially the important end-of-year celebration marking children’s transition from the final kindergarten level to primary school.A Foundation for Self-Sufficiency
Local craftsmen, builders, and artists will be involved in the construction process, contributing not only labor but also traditional knowledge. All construction materials will be sourced and produced in The Gambia, supporting the local economy and ensuring fair compensation for work.
Beneficiaries
Children
- Access to a safe space for play, learning, meals, rest, music, and outdoor sports activities
- Opportunities to listen to stories, participate in activities, and develop social skills in the shade
- Uninterrupted activities during the rainy season
- A ventilated, protected environment during periods of extreme heat
Youth
- A space for afternoon workshops, study groups, and exam preparation
- Opportunities to learn basic computer skills, creative skills, entrepreneurship, and other practical competencies
- Support for developing independence and self-confidence
Families
- Opportunities for parents to actively engage in the work of the career-educational center
- Improved communication between parents and teachers
- Space for joint events, workshops, and parent meetings
Community
- A central gathering point for social interaction, celebrations, visits, and local initiatives
- A venue for cultural and sports events
- Strengthened community identity and sense of belonging
Local Workers
- Direct employment opportunities for builders and craftsmen
- Strengthening of the local economy through reinvestment into the community
- Promotion of self-sufficiency and pride in local knowledge and skills
Impact
Sustainable Improvement of the Educational Environment
Creating a safe and supportive learning space contributes to better school readiness and overall quality of life.
Strengthening Social Cohesion
A shared space fosters mutual support, dialogue, understanding, and intergenerational cooperation.
Support for the Local Economy
Engaging local workers enhances family financial stability and reduces reliance on imported materials.
Development of Cultural Identity
Bantaba preserves traditional heritage while integrating it with contemporary community needs.
Environmental Sustainability
The use of natural, durable materials minimizes environmental impact and aligns the structure with the local climate.
Psychosocial Impact on Children
A safe environment for expression, socialization, and rest positively influences children’s emotional development, self-confidence, and sense of security.
Our Journey
The first bricks for our Bantaba have safely arrived at our Kids Are The World Nursery School. The journey wasn’t entirely smooth – they got a bit “stuck” along the way, but with patience, teamwork, and good spirits, we successfully overcame the challenge.
Today, the bricks are already in place, the space is prepared, and with great excitement we can say that we will soon begin building.
PHASE I – PREPARATION, CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT, AND FUNDRAISING
TARGET: Establish a strong foundation for implementation
STATUS: Ongoing
Activities include:
- development of the conceptual design,
- consultations with the local community,
- launch of the “Bricks for Bantaba” fundraising campaign,
- construction planning with local experts,
- fundraising for materials and labor.
PHASE II – CONSTRUCTION OF FOUNDATIONS AND STRUCTURE
TARGET: Build a strong, durable, and stable structure
STATUS: To begin after completion of Phase I
Activities include:
- site preparation,
- foundation pouring,
- installation of supporting structures and roofing,
- use of materials ensuring ventilation and shade.
Start of Bantaba Construction: The Foundations Are Set
This past weekend was full of activity at our career and education center. Local craftsmen began preparing the site, which included clearing the area, marking out the construction zone, and excavating for the foundations. This was followed by compacting the ground, setting up the formwork, and carefully pouring the foundations that will support our next—already the fourth—building within our career and education center: the Bantaba.
The work progressed smoothly, in the true spirit of Gambian collaboration, supported by a high level of skill and experience. Today, we are happy to share that the foundations have been successfully completed and are ready for the next phases of construction.
In the past few days, we have also received the first 1,000 bricks, already waiting to play their part in the story we are building together. Bricklaying will begin soon—and of course, you are warmly invited to join and help us build!
PHASE III – INTERIOR SETUP AND SURROUNDINGS
TARGET: Create a functional, safe, and welcoming space
STATUS: To begin after completion of Phase II
Activities include:
- floor installation,
- basic electrification,
- ventilation and lighting,
- aesthetic design of the space,
- landscaping of the surrounding area.
PHASE IV – PROGRAM LAUNCH AND OFFICIAL OPENING
TARGET: Activate Bantaba as a central community space
STATUS: Parallel with Phase III
Activities include:
- introduction of initial workshops and educational programs,
- organization of cultural events,
- regular meetings and gatherings,
- involvement of parents and the wider community,
- a special opening celebration for children and community members.
What's Next?
Although the Bantaba Project is not yet complete, it already stands as a living example of the power of community and shared vision. Bantaba grows gradually — alongside the people, the community’s needs, and available resources. Therefore, opportunities for support, collaboration, and co-creation remain abundant.
How You Can Get Involved
Through volunteering
in the development and activation of Bantaba as an educational, social, and cultural space (supporting workshops, working with children and youth, assisting programs of the career-educational center, and participating in community events).Through financial support and donations
dedicated to construction and equipment, development of educational and creative programs, support for local workers, youth inclusion, and the long-term development of the community.
Donation Details
Account Name: VOLUNTEER TRAILS – THE GAMBIA
Account Number (GMD): 6240037610
Account Number (EUR): 6240037611
Swift Code: ECOCGMGMXXX
Beneficiary Bank: Ecobank Gambia Ltd.
Beneficiary Bank Address: 42 Kairaba Avenue, Serekunda – The Gambia.