Solange Knowles, Beyonce’s little sister, has been one of those celebrities who you can find supporting Africa, whether it be rocking African designers, granting interviews to African focused magazines; and now joining in charity initiatives to benefit Africa. Knowles recently partnered with Coca-Cola on its ‘RAIN’ initiative to provide access to clean water and sanitation in Africa, with a spotlight on Kenya. Knowles sings a song titled ‘Kenya’ and all proceeds from her song will go to the RAIN project.
“The lack of safe drinking water in Africa is no secret. Every year, preventable waterborne illnesses claim the lives of millions of Africans. No single organization can resolve Africa’s water crisis, but together, with a combination of civil society, non-governmental organizations and government, we can make a positive difference on Africa’s water challenges.
The Coca-Cola Africa Foundation has been involved in community water programs since 2005. To date, 34 water projects in 19 countries have been supported, in partnership with and co-funded by USAID (United States Agency for International Development) under the Water and Development Alliance (WADA) and other partners. Within The Coca-Cola Company’s three-tier global water stewardship strategy which is focused on Reducing, Recycling and Replenishing the amount of water used in Coca-Cola beverages and their production, The Coca-Cola Africa Foundation’s focus is on Replenishing – or community based water interventions.
The Replenish Africa Initiative, or RAIN, is therefore the signature community initiative of The Coca-Cola Africa Foundation. Backed by a six-year, $30 million dollar commitment by The Coca-Cola Company, in partnership with other donors, RAIN’s goal is to provide over 2 million people in Africa with access to drinking water by 2015. RAIN will launch over 100 water access programs across Africa, including sanitation and hygiene education programs.
In collaboration with various partners, volunteers, patrons and organizations, RAIN is not just for the immediate future of Africa, but also for the long-term sustainability of its resources. RAIN is also The Coca-Cola Company’s contribution to help Africa meet the UN Millennium Development Goal on water and sanitation.”
For more information on RAIN, click here. Also for our Ladybrille readers, support Coca Cola’s efforts but also be sure to support Saran Kaba-Jones, Ladybrille Woman of the Month, January 2010 who continues to work hard and steadfastly for access to clean water and sanitation in Liberia. Visit Face Africa.com here on how to do so.
Founded in 2007, Ladybrille® Magazine is a California based pioneer digital publication demystifying the image of Africans in the west through contemporary African fashion and celebrating the brilliant woman in business and leadership, with an emphasis on the African woman in the diaspora. Our coverage includes stories on capital, access to markets, expertise, hiring and retention, sales, marketing, and promotions.
