VAM Village
100 acres have been purchased along the Volta River in the Sogakope area of Ghana to create a partially self-sustaining agricultural, medical, educational, and cultural center. 25 acres have been cleared for planting. Members of the Ghana Department of Agriculture are overseeing operations. In addition, 100 coconut trees have been planted to provide shade and fruit, and the beginning of a peace garden.
Future plans include a conference center for seminars, conferences and training sessions as well as hosting cultural events to celebrate and preserve the essence of African Heritage. Housing for participants, staff and volunteers, catering facilities, administrative offices and a nursery/kindergarten for the children of the participants will also be included. This village will be used as a model for other countries to utilize and bring to their countries what they learn, and to establish similar programs.
The areas of focus are:
Peace– Developing local leadership for conflict prevention, conflict resolution and post-conflict reconciliation and the promotion of peace within the family, community and nation.
Education– Participants will attend literacy classes. Women and children will be encouraged to aim for higher education and to understand the importance of equal education for all.
Self Sustainability- Economic empowerment of women will be promoted through various vocational training programs, job training, eco-friendly farming techniques and entrepreneurial skills.
Health–A health clinic and educational programs will provide teaching prevention and treatment of communicable diseases such as HIV/Aids and malaria, sexual and reproductive health, maternal health, nutrition, hygiene.
Future Plans
- Construction of a conference center and housing for staff and participants.
- The development of a teaching garden with four hundred 100 sq. foot plots providing vocational training as well as food for the Village.
- The development of a production garden producing items for sale in various markets. Proceeds will defray village costs.
- Further development of the peace garden providing a meditation area as well as providing a facility for fundraising through sponsoring areas of the garden.
- Hiring of staff, administration and instructors.
- Program development.
