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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

  1. Sustainable Improvement of the Educational Environment

    Creating a safe and supportive learning space contributes to better school readiness and overall quality of life.
  2. Strengthening Social Cohesion

    A shared space fosters mutual support, dialogue, understanding, and intergenerational cooperation.
  3. Support for the Local Economy

    Engaging local workers enhances family financial stability and reduces reliance on imported materials.
  4. Development of Cultural Identity

    Bantaba preserves traditional heritage while integrating it with contemporary community needs.
  5. Environmental Sustainability

    The use of natural, durable materials minimizes environmental impact and aligns the structure with the local climate.
  6. 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

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.
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.