Passion, vision and innovation are not enough for an NGO to survive in today’s world. It also requires a business model that will enable self-sustainability and positive cash flow.

BARKA Networks is the media production arm of the organization. It draws on the universal language of music, dance, film and art to build peace and reveal what is common in all of us. BARKA’s cultural art projects, regardless of the medium, are designed to educate and entertain, advancing awareness and achievement of its mission goals and in many cases, simultaneously generating sales to finance program activities.

BARKA Networks is the initial anticipated driver of revenue. Consideration is currently being given to making this a for-profit venture within the non-profit structure of BARKA Foundation. Revenues are anticipated through concerts, tours, television programming, sales of DVDs, CDs, merchandise, lectures and consulting.

Media Production

Video & Music Production

Yessai Baba Productions

• Video documentation
• Film
• Television programming
• Short form “webisodes” for social networking sites
• CD/DVD production and distribution

Music Label, currently in early phase development

• Proposed recording and production studio in Ouagadougou (2011)
• Recording and distribution
• Documentation of traditional musicians, instruments, songs and endangered languages

Concerts, Tours & Events

Two major flagship annual events were established in 2009:

• Peace, Water & Wisdom Walk, a 6km walk to raise awareness and funds for BARKA’s clean water initiatives in Burkina Faso
• Peace, Water & Wisdom Concert & Festival in Ouagadougou on the International Day of Peace

Products & Services

Written Work

• Ina & Esu are currently writing a book of their journey and experiences in Africa

Lectures

• Multimedia presentations at schools, conferences and solidarity organizations

Online Merchandise Sales

• T-shirts, DVDs, greeting cards, hand-selected crafts, and imported items coming soon.