THE BAOBAB TREE
Trustee Annual Report – Financial Year End 31 December 2024
| Trustee Annual Report – | Financial Year End 31 December 2024 |
|---|---|
| Charity Name: | THE BAOBAB TREE |
| Charity Number: | 1207139 |
| Date Registered: | 21 February 2024 |
| Financial Year End: | 31 December 2024 |
| Registered Address: | 176B Great Suffolk Street, London SE1 1PE, United Kingdom |
The Trustees of The Baobab Tree present their report together with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 December 2024. This report has been prepared in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 and serves as both the Trustees’ Report and a summary of the charity’s key activities and impact for the year.
Public Benefit Statement
The Baobab Tree exists to open doors of learning for children who otherwise have limited access to books. Every story shared, every book donated, and every act of kindness contributes to the growth of a generation through literacy and hope.
Charitable Objectives and Activities
The charity’s objectives are to advance education and promote literacy by collecting, sorting, and distributing books and educational materials to children and schools in the Congo and other underserved communities. During 2024, The Baobab Tree focused on building its foundation, establishing partnerships, and developing operational structures to enable long-term impact.
Achievements and Performance (2024)
Organised book collection drives across London, receiving donations from schools, individuals, and partners. Secured two office spaces in London to support operational setup and volunteer engagement. Established connections with orphanages and education centres in the Congo to receive the first shipment of books. Prepared a shipment plan for 1,000 books and educational toys to be delivered in the next financial year. Strengthened trustee coordination and began outreach for small charity grants.
Plans for 2025
The Trustees plan to deliver the first container shipment of books and resources to the Congo in 2025. Additional goals include: Furnishing the London offices to create a community hub for sorting and literacy activities. Expanding donor partnerships and applying for targeted education and community grants. Recruiting volunteers to support shipping, administration, and outreach. Launching awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of reading and global educational equity.
Governance and Management
The charity is governed by a board of Trustees who meet regularly to oversee activities, ensure financial accountability, and set strategic priorities. The Baobab Tree operates as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) registered in England and Wales under charity number 1207139.
Trustees (as of 31 December 2024)
Magalie Dihumba – Chair & Founder Martine Bolalo Bondekwe – Secretary / Treasurer Lucien Likandja – Operations & Strategic Planning Lead Daudy Londele – Partnership & Sourcing Lead
Message from the Chair
2024 has been a year of quiet but meaningful beginnings for The Baobab Tree. Every book gathered, every conversation about education, and every moment of shared vision reminds us that lasting change starts small — with acts of love and community. As we step into 2025, our goal is simple: to keep growing roots that reach children where hope and learning are most needed. We are deeply thankful to every trustee, supporter, and friend walking this journey with us. – Magalie Dihumba, Chair & Founder
Approval
This report was approved by the Board of Trustees on 10 October 2025 and signed on their behalf by:
____ ____ Magalie Dihumba (Chair) Martine Bolalo Bondekwe (Treasurer)
The Baobab Tree - Annual Return Summary 2024
Charity Name: THE BAOBAB TREE Charity Number: 1207139 Date Registered: 21 February 2024 Financial Year End: 31 December 2024 Reference: AR24-CIO-REM-7c – 1207139 – C Registered Address: 176B Great Suffolk Street, London SE1 1PE, United Kingdom
Financial Summary (1 January – 31 December 2024)
Total Income Received: £200 Total Expenditure: £0 Current Bank Balance: £123.78 Bank Name: The Co-operative Bank Sort Code: 08-92-99 Account Number: 67349555 Account Name: THE BAOBAB TREE
Charity Activities (2024–2025)
The Baobab Tree focused on establishing its foundation and strengthening community presence during 2024. Conducted book collection drives across London for children and schools in the Congo. Secured two office spaces in London to support operations and outreach. Engaged potential partners and orphanages to identify beneficiary locations for the first shipment. Recorded and categorised donated books (target: 1,000 books for shipment). Expanded trustee collaboration and volunteer involvement in preparation for growth and funding. Next Year’s Goals (2025): Ship first container of 1,000 books and toys to the Congo. Furnish London offices for sorting and community activities. Apply for education and community grants to sustain long-term impact. Recruit volunteers and strengthen partnerships with UK schools.
Trustees and Key Contacts
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Magalie Dihumba – Chair & Founder – Governance, Partnerships, Strategy
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Martine Bolalo Bondekwe – Secretary / Treasurer – Finance and Administration
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Lucien Likandja – Operations & Strategic Planning Lead
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Daudy Londele – Partnership & Sourcing Lead
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Benedicte Dihumba – Trustee – Community Engagement & Outreach
Signatures
Date Prepared: 10 October 2025
____ ____ Magalie Dihumba (Chair) Martine Bolalo Bondekwe (Treasurer)