History of AEF

Since 2004, we have been involved with small humanitarian projects in Africa. At first, we carefully selected young men and women for college scholarships. In special cases, we provided housing for abused women and children and covered medical expenses. We later began to focus on sustainable micro-enterprises such as a village clothing store for a Nigerian widow and a rural bakery in Nsawam, Ghana.

During these early years, all of our funding came through the personal donations of our founding directors and were directed toward individuals and communities with personal ties to AEF.  

In 2008, we realized that we had some unique advantages in identifying, funding, and managing impactful projects. Our directors and associates have years of experience in the language, culture, and business practices of Sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, we have formed relationships with political leaders and NGO’s in the region who keep us constantly apprised of needs and opportunities. Perhaps most importantly, our directors and outside advisors provide world-class financial management without pay.

For all of these reasons, we became an official 501(c)3 non-profit corporation so that we could solicit tax-deductible donations from the general public. In our first year as a public charity, we successfully established Global Link Internet Café in the urban district of Teshie, Ghana. The café is now profitable and providing reliable internet access.

In 2010 our main focus is assuming control of IBT School in the city of Nkawkaw.  This school has an enrollment of over 400 students from grades K-9.  We intend to raise the quality of the education, improve the facilities and change the name to Empower Academy.  We hope to be a force for good in the Kwahu region for both the students and their parents.

We are hoping to find new donors and supporters throughout the year so that we can offer more support to the African entrepreneurs, schools, and communities that desperately need our help. Please get involved and join our cause.