HOW FRIENDS OF AFRICA WERE FORMED. In April 1998 a group of the ex-members of the SMA Boys' club and their friends met with the Superior General of the Society of African Missions (SMA). They discussed how they could become more involved in the work of the mission of the church. Flowing from these discussions they decided to form a group that would facilitate the aspirations of young people connected to the SMA to become involved in mission. The group formed naming themselves the Friends of Africa and set about outlining their goals and objectives. They wished to make a contribution to the lives of the people of Africa. By establishing positive and direct links between Ireland and Africa, we endeavour to tackle the problems faced by youth in both places. Friends Of Africa is an organisation whose mission is to manifest the goodwill and concern of its members and supporters into practical aid for Africa and its people. Through our shared history with the SMA, we benefit from over 150 years experience of working in Africa with those most in need. Since 1998 Friends of Africa has become a registered Charity. Over the past eight years we have had ten long-term volunteers and over twenty short-term volunteers involved with various projects in Africa. Our group has helped set up street children centres and more recently have developed initiatives in learning through sport.