Changing World: Africa--Two Steps Forward

Hosted by Louis del Grande, this entry in the Changing World series shows how small changes in Africa's developing nations can have large benefits. In Botswana, the staple food of sorghum is very labor-intensive to produce, since the sorghum kernels must be separated from their hulls. As more children are attending school, and many women are entering the work force, there is less time for food preparation (TV dinners are not an option yet). Fortunately, a new de-hulling machine is greatly reducing the workload of the Botswana mothers. Another problem, exacerbated by the many droughts, is the lack of wood, particularly in the desert areas. The second half of the video explores a reforestation project which encourages tree planting (and sustained harvesting) at the community level. Sometimes a great notion doesn't require a grand technological leap--baby steps can also accomplish much. Other titles in the 13-part series which focuses on Africa, Latin America, and Asia, include: Harvesting the Monsoon, Breaking New Ground, and Plight of the Small. Recommended. (Available from: Chip Taylor Communications, 15 Spollett Dr., Derry, NH 03038; (800) 876-2447.)