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History teacher and self-taught farmer Gora Ndiaye is convinced that Africa’s development will be driven by rural change. However, in Senegal, young people often prefer to try their chances in the city, leaving behind their family terrain and rural poverty. The land is increasingly subject to erosion and the soil is less and less fertile as desertification takes hold. 

Inspired by these insights, Gora Ndiaye created the African Gardens Association and, together with local citizens, set up the Kaydara Agroecology School Farm in the commune of Fimela. Training young entrepreneurs since 2007, the project focuses on how to contribute to the emergence of autonomous, independent and ecological agriculture in Africa.  

Creating agroecology ambassadors 

Designed to create a lush micro forest, the farm hosts a multitude of local trees, animals, herbs and flowers. The teaching aims to train young adults in agroecology techniques, and transfer tools and knowledge about ecotourism. The students become agroecology ambassadors within the local community. The association helps young people test and apply this new knowledge – on their own land – and provides advice on everything from planting to finance. 

Building a new sustainable model  

16 local villages have already benefitted from this training with a positive impact on the land and food security. Awarded the International Accueil Paysan label, the farm also practices ecotourism and welcomes international students. The next step? To replicate this farm model in other parts of Kenya and beyond. 

Would you like to help Gora achieve this?