Continuing in our series, we would like to introduce you to another member of our team who works on the ground in Senegal every day to build resilient, thriving communities. We think they are pretty amazing and are sure you will agree. This is the ninth in a series introducing the people that make it all possible. (Click here to see others in this series.) Meet Francois, Garden Technician.
Francois joined the Andando team as a Garden Technician in 2015..
Francois Manga, who goes by Fara, joined the Andando team in 2015 as one of our Garden Technicians. He was born in Thies, a large community 184 kilometers (approx. 112 miles) northwest of Keur Socé. He comes from a big family, and enjoyed an advanced education. He studied in Ziguinchor, which is in the southern part of Senegal (below The Gambia), often referred to as the Casamance Region.
Keeping up with his nieces and nephews, Francois is lively and energetic.
Before joining us he had extensive experience in gardens, working in the Mbour Garden, the Beersheba Cooperative, and finally as an intern in the Keur Moussa Monastery Garden. We first met Francois when we bought mango, lemon, and guava trees from Keur Moussa Garden for inclusion in our own gardens. Once he completed his internship there, he joined the Andando team.
In addition to providing training in the gardens, Francois also assists with local farmers participating in the microloan program.
“When you give, you have to give wholeheartedly. When you work, you have to give everything to succeed.
I enjoy learning how to manage the gardens and handle problems as they arise. I have enjoyed working for Andando very much and am very proud to be part of the team.”
”
A quick learner, Francois started with one garden and is now managing three. He works directly with nearly 350 women, training them and giving them support so their gardens can flourish. When asked, he says his favorite produce is beetroot!
Chatting with garden participants at their produce stands in town, where they sell their extra produce increasing their household income by 25%.
An avid futbol (soccer) fan, you will find him cheering on the Senegal Lyons (who recently won the Africa Cup of Nations tournament for the very first time) as well as Manchester United.
Francois with his Boy Scout Troop (he is fourth from the right, back row.)
He was a member of the local Boy Scouts and loves to play with and teach his nieces and nephews; he cares deeply for his family.
Your support enables Francois to help his fellow citizens. Thank you for investing in their future!
We are excited and honored to introduce you to more of our team and share their hope for the future with you. Thank you for your support!