At the intersection of developmental, environmental and international social work is advocacy

Abu Mansaray-George is a Sierra Leonean international social worker. His current advocacy project for land reclamation and afforestation intersects developmental, environmental and international social work. Abu’s Go Fund Me fundraiser reads as follows:

Dear Friends and Supporters,

In the heart of our rural community( North West Sierra Leone), where generations have nurtured the land with care and dedication, we face a battle for survival. Our once-bountiful farms, teeming with life and promise, are being stripped away by a powerful multinational corporation. As they expand their grip on our precious soil, the future of our community hangs in the balance.

Our farmers, whose hands have tilled these lands for centuries, now find themselves with limited space to grow the crops that sustain us. The encroachment of this corporate giant not only threatens our livelihoods but also our very way of life. As if this weren’t enough, nature itself has turned against us. The signs are clear: heavy wind storms and flooding loom on the horizon, promising further devastation.

But we refuse to be passive victims of these forces. Our community is rallying to reclaim what is rightfully ours. We are fighting to restore and reforest our lands with native trees, creating a natural shield against the worsening climate. These trees will stand as a testament to our resilience and a vital line of defense against the elements.

To achieve this, we need your help. Your support will enable us to:

Reclaim Our Land: Legal battles and community mobilization are our tools to take back our farms. Your contributions will fund the necessary legal actions and grassroots campaigns.

Reforest with Native Trees: Planting trees native to our region will restore the natural balance, prevent soil erosion, and provide habitats for local wildlife. This reforestation effort is crucial for protecting our land from wind storms and floods.

Expand Sustainable Farming: With reclaimed land, we can expand our farms sustainably, ensuring food security and economic stability for our community. Your donation will support the purchase of seeds, tools, and training in sustainable agricultural practices.

Our fight is not just for land; it is for our heritage, our children, and the future of our planet. Every tree planted, every farm restored, and every inch of land reclaimed brings us one step closer to a brighter, more sustainable future.

Please join us in this vital endeavor. Stand with our community. Together, we can turn the tide, reclaim our lands, and plant the seeds of hope and renewal.

With deepest gratitude,

Abu Mansaray-George, International Social Worker

Support Abu’s Go Fund Me