The Joanna Kirk Library: Tibzaa Farms, Ghana

Sustainable Empowerment Initiatives first project is honoring Professor Joanna Kirk. We are partnering with our friend, Sintaro Mahama, to construct The Joanna Kirk Library. Sintaro was educated all over the world, but returned to his home city of Tamale and founded Tibizaa Farms to improve the quality of life in his community through agriculture and education. The world “Tibzza” means “total healing” in the local language of Dagbani. Tibzaa Farms’ goal is to help local farmers and empower women through education and sustainable farming. The Joanna Kirk Library would help educate and empower thousands of women and youth as well as an educational resource for the entire community. This library will be located on outside the city of Tamale, in the Northern Region of Ghana. 

Professor Kirk spent her whole life giving back to others, especially in the developing world. In 1985, Joanna went to Sri Lanka where she taught at an international school. In Sri Lanka she met her husband Chuck and the two of them moved to Nepal. In 1997, Joanna came to SUNY Geneseo where she became a beloved sociology professor. For years, Joanna led study abroad trips where she brought students to developing countries and shared her passion to create a better world. She was an inspiration to her students at Geneseo and beyond.

The Joanna Kirk Library will keep her legacy alive; a legacy of education and selflessness to help others.