About us · since 1983

In memory of a friend, on the front line for over forty years

The story of the association, from Filippo Lovatelli to today.

A story of action and solidarity

The Amici di Filippo association was founded in October 1983 in memory of Filippo Lovatelli, an extraordinary man whose life was adventurous and intense, lived between extreme expeditions and humanitarian work. Filippo was an explorer, a traveller and a man of action, deeply devoted to the peoples and the lands he crossed.

From his ventures in Africa and Asia — including the first descent of the Blue Nile and his work in the missions of Somalia and Zaire — to his tragic death in the Philippines in 1983, he left a lasting mark on everyone who knew and loved him.

His legacy became the heart of our mission: to act on the front line where the need is greatest, with a direct and practical approach, keeping alive the spirit of adventure and solidarity that defined him.

From the early years to today's missions

In its first years Amici di Filippo worked in the Philippines, then turned to humanitarian emergencies in Africa, with operations in Ethiopia, Burkina Faso and Togo. For more than forty years we have promoted sustainable development, education and healthcare projects, building schools, hospitals, water systems and farming infrastructure.

Our approach has always been marked by close ties with local communities, hands-on work in the field and particular attention to the sustainability and independence of every project: once a facility is self-sufficient, we hand it over to the people who live there.

The adventure continues

Today, after decades of practical work, the association is entering a new phase of growth, with the aim of involving new generations of supporters and volunteers: turning the quiet initiative of a few into a wider movement, able to gather resources and people ready to get personally involved.

We want to keep working on the front line, strengthening existing projects and opening new paths, with the adventurous, pragmatic spirit that defines us.

Working with the Consolata Missionaries

A cornerstone of our work in Africa is our decades-long partnership with the Consolata Missionaries, with whom we share values, projects and a humanitarian vision.

Founded in 1901 by Giuseppe Allamano, the Consolata Missionaries are a religious congregation active worldwide in social, educational and healthcare work. Over the decades this partnership has produced hospitals, schools, water systems and farming projects, particularly in Gambo, Weragu and Alaba.

Thanks to their presence on the ground and their deep understanding of local dynamics, we can deliver targeted and sustainable projects. The Consolata Missionaries remain the reference point for our work in Ethiopia today.

Join us

Amici di Filippo is a dynamic, practical organisation with strong local roots. Every contribution, every volunteer and every new idea is essential to carrying our work forward.

If you also believe that direct action and personal involvement can make the difference, get in touch and find out how to contribute to our projects.