Askiya
Creating West Africa’s Future. Together
Building a foundation for generations to come, Askiya works alongside West African communities to navigate land loss, food insecurity, and economic exclusion. We're a guide neighbors turn to for building — and reclaiming — sovereignty.
Makervillages
Supporting Sustainable Land Use
At Askiya, we are committed to creating economic ecosystems for West Africans solely through our flagship initiative: Makervillages.
Makervillages are community-driven initiatives fostering economic growth in rural West Africa by providing essential services, resources, and infrastructure for local businesses, artisans, and entrepreneurs.
These centralized hubs support the entire value chain of local commodities and talent, enabling active participation in production, processing, marketing, and distribution.
Our Work
Believing in the power of collective action, Askiya is dedicated to empowering West African communities across the diaspora and the homeland.
As a 501(c)(3) organization, we power high-impact, community-owned models—from permanent land trusts and Makervillages to polytechnic education and food sovereignty movements—turning your support into land secured, enterprises launched, and thriving ecosystems built for long-term self-determination.
Make a Gift
Our work is made possible by generous donations—big and small—from people like you. Give today to help rural West African build assets, improve financial stability through businesses or education, and pursue their full potential.
HELP US DO MORE
Join Our Global Giving Community
Monthly donations are the easiest, most effective way to guarantee that communities have access to the resources and support they need, and help us continue to advocate for critical initiatives like Land Trusts and the development of Makervillages for shared prosperity.
Investing in Community Development
Makervillages emphasize community involvement and prioritize local participation in planning and design, ensuring development aligns with community needs. These hubs build social cohesion through community engagement and collaboration.
The profits from our activities are invested in a Community Development Account, which provides a pathway for community members to build assets and improve their financial stability through business ownership or education.
Ready to build African economic sovereignty from the ground up? Whether you join for a 1-week immersion trip, a short-term project, or a long-term residency in West Africa, your hands-on work directly constructs vital infrastructure like our flagship 300-acre Daieplay Makervillage in Liberia. Work alongside local artisans to build facilities, support agroforestry nurseries, mentor entrepreneurs, or launch a peer-to-peer fundraising team.
Make an Impact:
Join Our Next Volunteer COHORT
Partner with Us
Join our collaborative networks across individuals, organizations, and public and private sectors to promote local production, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods.