Farafina Donia News February 2007
Malian musician/author Yaya Diallo returned from Mali and has been successful in obtaining 15 acres of land 10 miles from the capital Bamako for "Farafina Donia" - A Survival School for Traditional African Culture in Mali. The name "Farafina Donia" translates into "African Knowledge."
A donkey is now an important resident to help remove stones and bring in bricks for construction. Clearing of the land is now underway along with building the first hut and door for the ancestors.
Radio Mali and TV have taken much notice of the project which is getting a lot of attention. The site is surrounded by several villages. Yaya attended a meeting with the regional elders and chiefs. There is much enthusiasm that Farafina Donia will have an impact on both the country and the entire continent as its success will provide a good example for people. As Yaya says, "We want to do some positive thing."
The land itself is 200 meters wide by 300 meters long for a total of 60,000 square meters. The start of this project possibly would not have begun at this time had it not been for the insight of a local landowner who saw the value of such of project and acted according to his vision by stepping forward with a feasible proposal for the land. Such is the nature of the project as it reaches out and touches the spirit and hearts of people.
"Farafina Donia" is a model that may serve for the preservation of traditional African culture across the continent.
"Farafina Donia" tee-shirts are available to show your support. Contributions towards the construction are most welcome. Above all, your spirit and positive intentions will be the ground upon which this will flourish.
Contact Farafina Donia at:
1414 Techny Lane
Louisville Kentucky 40222
farafina_donia@att.net
Tel.: 502-410-9890
Your good wishes are appreciated.
Blessings,
Stephen
Stephen Conroy, Producer/Publisher
Yaya Diallo's Traditional & Contemporary West African Kanza Music
Onzou Records, http://www.onzou.com
Email: info@onzou.com