"Africa suffers the equivalent of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami every month of every year, a deadly tide of disease and hunger that rarely makes the TV news but causes thousands of people to die quietly and out of sight every day. In years to come, future generations will look back and ask: how could our world have known all this and yet done nothing?"

"Our Common Interest"
Report of Commission for Africa

Washed ashore on the Namibian coast after the sinking of the hospital ship Centaine de Thiry survives the burning shore and unforgiving desert with the aid of an elderly San (Bushmen) couple. O'wa and H'ani share the skills needed in this harsh and forbidding landscape. As the story unfolds Centaine's 'rescue' comes at the cost of her friends lives, murdered by her rescuer, and the ultimate plunder of their sacred place by Centaine herself.

"The Burning Shore" , one of Wilbur Smith's novels about Africa, introduces themes that run through the history of the continent - failure to understand and learn from tribal cultures, and exploitation of natural resources by powerful colonising forces.

Powerful nations and companies continue to exploit Africa's resources. Tribes and individuals struggle for power in many countries. International organisations have offered solutions without truly understanding the culture or the people. And Africans still suffer, and the continent is home to millions of the poorest people on earth.

For analysis and updates on the situation in Africa check out our Links Page

There is a resourcefulness that can be seen throughout Africa. Many have lived through ideological battles and armed struggle without knowing what it was all about. They have been innocent victims in the struggles for power and resources. Others have garnered meagre resources and made a living and a life. The stories of the ordinary people of Africa are stories of perserverance and hope.

Yes, Africa is alive. There is a vibe in Africa despite the struggles. Grace and patience are present in abundance. They are needed as Africans face huge challenges daily.

www.theburningshore.com does not have the solution. We do empower through education so Africans can better solve their own problems. Your donation can be part of this process.