The Almond Tree is a united group of men and women living with HIV in Accra, Ghana.  This group believes that with solidarity, equality, mutual support and economic independence they will reclaim their freedom and have control over their destiny. 

The almond tree has a special meaning for the group of fifteen members.  For years it's leaves have provided a safe shaded meeting place for people living with HIV to seek support and escape the stigma in their communities.  Individuals come here to be reassured by laughter, share their pain and fears, and most importantly to feel a sense of belonging.

The idea for the Almond Tree Income Generating Project was born under this tree.  The hope for this project is to support the Accra HIV community and together as one, will overcome stigma and give hope to the hopeless.

Humble Beginnings                                     Ghana Coat of Arms

In Accra, Ghana, the income generating project began when a group of HIV positive individuals took up beading to support themselves financially and emotionally on the ground of the International Health Care Clinic/West Africa AIDS Foundation (WAAF).

Canada Coat of Arms

Canadian Partnership & Support

The partnership with the AIDS Committee of London in London, Ontario and the ongoing support from Canadian Crossroads International has helped the once small group expand to include two additional sectors.  The bread making group is currently learning the necessary skills to run their own bakery.  A third group is learning the art of tie dye and batik.  This decorative fabric becomes clothing and accessories.

Group Goals

The project members anticipate the scope will grow, thereby reintegrating more individuals in the HIV community into the work field.

Copyright Almond Tree Group 2007

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"The group makes me forget about the disease.  It makes us happy.  We don't get sad.  The tree is where we gather to interact with each other and talk about our problems."

              ~Ibrahim

  "It "It is always important under the tree.  We do all of our groups there.  I am happy under the tree"

             ~Ahmed