Sahara Aid Convoy

Friendship Force International joined the UK based Saharawan Aid Trust for a special humanitarian aid convoy to the Saharawi refugee camps in Northern Africa. The trip began in London on October 3, 2004 where Ambassadors boarded a tour bus, traveling as part of a convoy. The first stop was in Portsmouth, UK where the convoy was ferried to Bilboa, Spain. After three days crossing Spain, the group arrived at the port of Alicante, where they departed on an overnight ferry to Oran, in Northern Algeria. After passing through the Atlas Mountains the convoy traveled deep into the heart of the Sahara, finally arriving in the refugee camp in Tindouf. After a four-day homestay with the Saharawi people, the group returned to London by air, on October 17.

"The experience of a lifetime."

The Saharawi people need our support to endure their harsh existence in the desert. Besides bringing desperately needed food, medical supplies and clothing, our visits reward the Saharawi with a chance to meet and befriend people from other cultures. They regard this visit by people from different countries and cultures to be more important than any material aid they receive.

Periodically, a group goes to the Sahara. The next one will be listed under Exchanges when it is organized. Typically a program fee includes all transportation from London, 14 nights accommodation including four nights of homestay, all meals in Algeria and most meals in Spain. The exchange fee includes a $600 tax deductible contribution (for US residents) which will be used to help purchase a bus and other supplies for the Sahari people. Price is based on double occupancy.

For more information about this past trip, contact:
Thelma Henry: thelma_henry@msn.com

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