The „Freundeskreis Tambacounda e.V.“ (Circle of Friends Tambacounda, incorporated society) is based in Hannover, Germany. Established in 1992, the association enlightens its surrounding community of Africa’s cultural assets and assists in development projects in Africa.

The Circle of Friends’ goal is to bring forth the theme “education for sustainable development” in Hanover, as well as in Tambacounda/Senegal, through a practical approach to learning with the aim of initiating and accomplishing concrete measures and projects. The way we see it, there is a need for development and development potential in Hanover as well as in Tambacounda. The theme of development touches many fields, but we focus especially on education, the environment, health, and integration.  We find that the process of knowledge transfer and exchange is most successful when formulated to the target group or their age. Through this method, we are able to gain new perspectives as well as alter preconceived notions, behavior and living conditions.

In Tambacounda (Senegal) our main goal is to support the people so that they can take charge of their own fate and find solutions themselves. At the same time, we want to support the people in Hanover (Germany) in overcoming the notion of Africa as a weak, needy and dependent continent and instead, open their minds to cultural diversity and the creative ideas Africa has to offer.

The name Tambacounda was chosen consciously, as it symbolizes an unknown and under appreciated part of the world. Tambacounda is the capital of the province Sénégal Oriental, in the eastern part of the country, on the border of the Sahel. In Senegal, the region is regarded as hopelessly underdeveloped and antiquated. Changing this situation is an important goal of the association.

In collaboration with various organizations, institutions, and initiatives, the Circle of Friends has undertaken many projects. Event series in Hanover and the wider Lower Saxon area, as well as events in Hanover schools, raise awareness of Tambacounda and its people and other regions in Africa.