Help to Publish "When Soil Speaks" from #Youth4Soil

“When Soil Speaks” is a powerful and evocative exploration of the vital yet often overlooked life within our soils. Written to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect and nurture this fragile ecosystem, the book sheds light on how the very foundation of human life and biodiversity is anchored in the health of our soils. It draws a poignant connection between soil life and the future of our planet, urging readers to listen to the cries of the Earth beneath their feet.

Humankind's survival, along with that of countless other species, depends on the health of our soils. However, the relentless onslaught of landfill waste, plastic pollution, increased urbanization, and the widespread use of pesticides and toxic chemicals is endangering this essential resource. These harmful practices poison the soil, disrupt its delicate balance, and threaten the microbial life that sustains our food systems and natural habitats.

As urban sprawl consumes fertile land, and plastic infiltrates even the most remote ecosystems, soil degradation accelerates, imperiling global food security and biodiversity.

“When Soil Speaks” emerges as a strong and urgent voice advocating for the protection of soil health. Through thought-provoking poetry and stories, the book illustrates the consequences of neglecting the life beneath us and calls for immediate action to reverse the damage. This book amplifies the cries of the soil, reminding humanity that we are part of a vast web of interconnected life, and that saving our soil is synonymous with saving ourselves. This book serves as both a warning and a beacon of hope, urging readers to engage in the fight for a sustainable future where the Earth, its creatures, and its people can thrive in harmony.

“When Soil Speaks” is crafted to be accessible and impactful for readers of all generations. Through its vivid language and storytelling, the book communicates complex environmental issues in a way that resonates with a wide audience. The blend of poetry and narrative makes the content engaging for both younger readers, who can grasp the fundamental concepts of soil health and its importance, and older readers, who can appreciate the deeper environmental and societal implications.

About the Author

Eliseus Bamporineza is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and climate resilience, dedicated to driving positive change across Africa. He graduated with honors from the United States International University Africa (USIU-Africa) in 2023 with a degree in International Relations and Integrated Studies. He furthered his education through the Aspire Leaders program, founded at Harvard in 2022, School of Climate Change at Oxford University where he enhanced his climate adaptation and negotiation skills in 2023, and an enriching exchange program at the University of Rochester in 2019.

Professionally, Eliseus has gained valuable experience through internships and fellowships with prominent organizations such as the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), where he focused on youth and gender inclusiveness in advocacy and partnerships, and the African Leadership Academy where he contributed to policy recommendations on how to improve education systems across Africa. His contributions to climate action are reflected in his participation in the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens' Youth AgriChampions cohort and his involvement with the Coalition of Action for Soil Health (CA4SH) where he is receiving mentorship on soil health advocacy and support on actualizing his #Youth4Soil Campaign movement advocating for soil health and protection as he launches his poetry book “When Soil Speaks” giving voice to life under our feet.

His contributions have been recognized through numerous awards, including winning the Policy Creation Challenge at the African Leadership Academy this year, recognition for his essay on promoting youth equitable outcomes in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and his top essay for contributions ahead of the African Union - European Union in 2022 recognized and awarded by the Africa – Europe Foundation. His work continues to focus on empowering Africa's youth, advocating for increased land and finance access, social security, and inclusive policies that reach the vulnerable and ensure sustainable development across the continent.

Breakdown of Publishing Costs:

1. Editing and Proofreading

Total for Editing: $1500

2. Design

Total for Design: $1600

3. Printing

Total for Printing 500 copies: $3500 + setup cost ($100) + shipping cost ($500) = $4100

4. ISBN and Distribution

Total for ISBN and Distribution: $400

5. Marketing and Promotion

Total for Marketing: $3300

6. Miscellaneous

Total for Miscellaneous: $700

Total Estimated Costs WERE: $11600

** We are excited to share that Writers Guild Kenya has offered to support Eliseus at a premium. They will cover proofreading, design, layout, illustrations, a pre and post launch event, and media marketing for $6000