:Author:   Ben Parkinson
:Date:     Tue, 12 Feb 2008 05:11:41 PST

Ok, I will try to respond on this.  I've been thinking about this the last couple of days, hence my lack of response.  My focus is on developing a social enterprise, rather than running an educational project.  My personal objectives of bringing money into rural Africa to economically infuse are paramount.

I think a SWOT analysis is probably what is needed, so here is a go at it:

STRENGTHS:
- Massive enthusiasm for music and, in particular, song
- Local pride in cultural heritage
- Not much competition globally for African Arts
- Me - someone who can assess talent quickly and easily and, if necessary, provide backing.
- High quality NGO

WEAKNESSES:
- Lack of local training and, in most cases, professionalism of output
- Lack of utilities, recording studios and equipment
- Lack of internet for selling and playing back
- Political instability
- Lack of clearly-defined indigenous music (i.e. sheet music)
- "Trust" issue

OPPORTUNITIES: - World enthusiasm for supporting African projects
- World enthusiasm for indigenous African music - song and rhythm
- Massive on-line music community
- Tapping talent will bring new global African stars
- Original printed music sales locally

THREATS:
I'm going to leave these out:)

So, to tackle this project, we will need:

A recording studio - needs building or hiring

A very good internet connection - must be possible

Fundraising - Me

Project Marketing - possibly a competition (and prizes)- NGO have already planned something similar

A centre - we have SKaRDIA in Kachia, but it needs lots of renovation - for people to rehearse and meet

A methodology and channel for acquisition and distribution of equipment (instruments/recording etc.) - my focus would be on keyboards and bass guitars (and possibly drums) provided with solar powered amps.  Other instruments can come later.

A "youth" arm for "up and coming" talent, with attendant trainers - link to Butterfly Project.  

A "polishing" arm to upgrade the existing talent and musical material to a marketable status overseas.  This is less about commercialism than quality of production, musicianship and material, as we have a niche product.  

A sustainability plan - this will come from levies on sales, fundraising, recording and rehearsal fees, local government support 

An implementation plan and project manager

It's all very general at the moment, but any comments/advisal of ommissions would be appreciated.  Would it attract funding, do you think?