Matthew A. Onyeanula—a Nigerian-born agro-ecologist, permaculturist, peace advocate and creative artist—founded the Mattlawie Ecological Regenerative Center in the Have region of Ghana. Since officially registering in 2017, the center has transformed local land into a regenerative eco-farm and permaculture hub, guided by organic, chemical-free principles that enrich soil health and support biodiversity.
Volunteers and interns help with land clearing, natural building (such as constructing base camps and eco-lodges), reforestation, planting diverse crops including herbs, vegetables, moringa, mushroom cultivation and beekeeping, along with renewable energy installations like solar systems and rainwater catchment.
The center also operates community programs—such as ecological training workshops, environmental management and waste recycling, youth soccer under the “Kicking for Green” initiative, and natural products production like essential oils and organic soaps. Through these combined efforts, Mattlawie empowers local communities, addresses soil degradation and food security and fosters peace and climate action.
Interested volunteers can join multi-week placements (usually two weeks or more), engage hands-on in farming, building, animal care, eco-tourism, ICT training and cultural exchange, staying in shared volunteer accommodations following a few hours daily of work in return for full board and a supportive community experience.
Matthew’s mission through Mattlawie is clear: to model sustainable ecology, nurture peace and community through regenerative practices, and equip locals and volunteers alike with tools for environmental stewardship and social change.
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