Women’s Microfinance Initiative (WMI)
WMI is a women’s microfinance program created in Uganda in 2008, which currently has hubs in Kenya and Tanzania as well. Using a group lending model and requiring no collateral, the program is easily accessible. Profits are reinvested into local communities, leading to wider impact. After learning about WMI’s highly successful small-loan program in Uganda, MP was able to establish a branch in Tanzania. The organization, led by women and for women, trains, supports and gives loans to those living in remote villages. This allows the recipients to start or grow their own businesses and also build their communities through reinvesting profits, while building essential skills.
Foundation for African Medicine and Education (FAME)
FAME hospital provides medical services that are typically limited, if available at all, to the rural Tanzanian community. In order to improve access and quality to patients in Karatu and its surrounds, FAME provides ever-expanding medical care to anyone who needs it. Additionally, FAME, which is located in Karatu, brings in specialized doctors from around the world to work with and improve the skills of local staff, nearly all of whom are Tanzanian. Find out about MP’s medical projects here.
Sisters For Peace
Comprised of a group of women volunteering in order to better the lives of females around the world, Sisters for Peace is a nonprofit organization based in the US. This grassroots group focuses on, raises money for and supports projects surrounding poverty, women’s equality and health, human rights and social justice for women and girls in the States and internationally. Learn more about the Sisters’ project promotion, fundraisers and site visits throughout the world here.
Maasai Stoves and Solar
Maasai women cook for their families and heat their homes with a traditional, three-stone open fire inside of a non-ventilated hut. This leads to toxic levels of smoke and contaminant exposure. Maasai Stoves and Solar (MSS) is combatting this issue through efficient, chimney stoves, “focusing on local solutions and women’s empowerment.” Teaching local women how to build the stoves and providing them at a low cost provides a better environment and an opportunity for skill-building and income generation. The organization, part of International Collaborative, is based in the US but operated and managed in Tanzania by Tanzanians. Read more about this project here.