Now its getting serious.  Having completed the application form and criteria that we have tested and are satisfied is appropriate, its time to start interviewing people. Tony and his family are first on the list as we work through the questions.  We understand their current housing situation, their dreams and aspirations, their skill sets and motivation, how they view and…

About a mile away from Destiny Village (our site) is a rice factory which have a waste of rice husks.  By burning these we make a cement replacement.  Cement here costs about £6.50per bag.  Burning rice husks cost about 50p a bag.  Considering the thousands of bags of cement we need this will bring huge savings – well done Joe and…

Off to church and quite an event. Moses Sesay, who works with us to understand how best to develop our communities is also a pastor of the Good News Church in Freetown. Moses turn 50 last week and his church had quite a celebration. I was asked to say a few words and honour him in his role and passion…

In September 2015 thousands of people took refuge in the national stadium as they literally lost their homes and everything they had in the world.  This brought housing on to the agenda with this catastrophe and the need for 280,000 homes in Freetown alone (per EU 2014 report). We understand the govt has put aside 200 acres of land, funnily enough just…

Early start as we head to the building site. Greeted by 45 workers doing their pre work press-ups and exercises. Great atmosphere as I had the opportunity to share some thoughts with them and thank them for their contribution. I found it truly moving to see the first 8 houses fully laid out, thousands of bricks and blocks, cess pits…

Goal today is to look at costings and with Joe and the detailed work of the team we have an excellent price for the direct cost of a house, the services will remain more challenging. Had dinner with a chap and learned a lot about diamond trading – absolutely fascinating and understanding how value ramps up as stones go form…