New Village Library Opens - Save Africa's Nature

SANA's Foundation and Mission

Founded in 2008 by Costas Coucoulis - a Burundian-born Greek who has lived in Tanzania for 25 years - SANA embodies a powerful idea: protecting the environment by empowering local communities.

Coucoulis' commitment grew out of his own experiences during Burundi's bloody civil war in the 1990s, which inspired him to build something better for Africa's future.

"This library represents more than just books – it's a bridge between cultures, a gateway to knowledge, and a symbol of hope for the children of Gongo and Saadani. Through education, we build the foundation for conservation and community empowerment."

— SANA Team

SANA's Comprehensive Impact

Over the years, SANA has become a vibrant force for change around Tanzania's Saadani National Park.

Navarino’s small gift of books for the children of Gongo and Saadani is more than a gesture—it marks the beginning of a partnership with Saving Africa’s Nature, working at the heart of one of Africa’s most delicate and vital landscapes. This collaboration shows how international partnerships can create lasting positive change, connecting communities across continents through shared values of education, conservation, and hope..

A Symbolic Gift of Knowledge

The newly completed village library in Gongo stands as a testament to international collaboration and the power of education. Funded by a Greek philanthropist and built with the help of volunteers from Greece, the library now houses its first collection: books on Greek history and mythology.
This symbolic donation from Navarino's "green" ambassador, Akis Temperidis, represents more than just books—it's a bridge between continents, cultures, and communities. The books traveled from Greece to East Africa, where they were entrusted to SANA – Saving Africa's Nature.
Founded by Costas Coucoulis in 2008, SANA embodies the powerful idea of protecting the environment by empowering local communities. This library joins SANA's comprehensive efforts including health centers, clean water access, education programs, and conservation initiatives across Tanzania's Saadani National Park region.

The Library's Impact

First Library

Region's first community library

Cultural Bridge

Greek history and mythology collection

Community Access

Open to all Gongo and Saadani children

International Partnership

Greek-Tanzanian collaboration

New Village Library Opens with Greek History Collection

A Cross-Continental Partnership