About Us - WAM Initiative
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About WAM Initiative

Discover our journey, mission, and the passionate team behind our work to create harmony between people, health, and environment in Tanzania.

About WAM

Watu, Afya na Mazingira (WAM), a Swahili phrase translated in English as People, Health and Environment, is a Tanzanian Non-Governmental Organization dedicated to tackling the intertwined challenges of environmental degradation, poverty, and public health.

By promoting sustainable practices, WAM empowers communities to adopt alternative livelihoods, conserve biodiversity, and build resilience to climate change. Through initiatives such as conservation education, health awareness campaigns, and income-generating activities like beekeeping, organic farming, and reforestation, WAM enhances both human well-being and environmental sustainability.

The organization also supports access to clean water and energy, improved nutrition, and the prevention of zoonotic diseases, fostering economic resilience and ecological harmony.

WAM envisions a future where communities thrive in harmony with nature, biodiversity is preserved, and health and prosperity are accessible to all.

Vision, Mission & Values

Our Vision

To become the leading model in promoting harmony between communities and nature, improving health, and fostering sustainable development through innovative practices in Tanzania.

Our Mission

To promote sustainable health, empower communities, and protect the environment through innovative approaches that address interconnected challenges of conservation, health, and livelihoods.

Sustainability

We commit to solutions that are environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially equitable for current and future generations.

Our Story

WAM was established to address the intertwined challenges of environmental degradation, poverty, and public health in Tanzania. The organization was inspired by the urgent need to balance human livelihoods with the conservation of natural resources and the promotion of sustainable development.

WAM is laying the groundwork to empower communities through innovative and community-driven initiatives. These include conservation education, sustainable livelihoods strategies, and health awareness campaigns addressing issues such as zoonotic diseases and nutrition.

With a vision of fostering harmony between people and nature, WAM is committed to building a future where biodiversity thrives, communities are more resilient, and health and prosperity are accessible to all.

Community Meeting

Women's Cooperative Transforms Community

How a group of women in rural Tanzania built a successful beekeeping business with our support, improving livelihoods and funding local education.

Women's Group

Reforestation Project Reaches Milestone

Our community-led reforestation effort has now planted over 500,000 trees, restoring critical watersheds and creating sustainable resources.

Tree Planting

Mobile Health Clinic Serves Remote Villages

Our new mobile health unit is bringing essential medical services to communities that previously had no access to healthcare facilities.

Our Coverage

WAM operates across villages, towns, cities, and areas surrounding national parks, game reserves, and forest reserves throughout the United Republic of Tanzania. With a focus on regions where communities heavily depend on natural resources, WAM aims to address environmental conservation, public health, and sustainable livelihoods.

As we establish our presence, WAM is dedicated to expanding its impact nationwide, particularly in areas with significant environmental health challenges and opportunities for community-driven conservation and public wellbeing.

Our Supporters

Contribution of any size from individuals, partners, and organizations who support WAM’s mission is noted and acknowledged. Your commitment and encouragement inspire us to keep working towards healthier communities, thriving environments, and sustainable livelihoods.

Together, we are building a better future where people and nature coexist in harmony.

Our Team

Meet the passionate individuals who bring WAM’s vision to life. Each team member contributes unique expertise, energy, and dedication, forming a strong and committed force driving our mission forward.

Team Member

Dr. Jamila Mwinyi

Executive Director
Team Member

John Hassan

Program Director
Team Member

Fatma Juma

Health Coordinator
Team Member

Samuel Kimambo

Field Coordinator
Team Member

Areas of Expertise

  • Community-based conservation
  • Sustainable agriculture
  • Environmental policy
  • Project management

Frequently Asked Questions

What does WAM stand for?

WAM stands for Watu, Afya na Mazingira, which translates to People, Health and Environment in English. This name reflects our integrated approach to addressing the interconnected challenges of human wellbeing and environmental conservation.

How can I get involved with WAM?

There are several ways to get involved with WAM:

  • Become a volunteer in one of our programs
  • Make a donation to support our work
  • Partner with us as an organization or business
  • Participate in our community events
  • Spread awareness about our mission
How does WAM measure its impact?

We use a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework to track our impact across all programs. This includes both quantitative metrics (number of trees planted, people trained, health outcomes improved) and qualitative assessments (community feedback, case studies, long-term sustainability of projects). We publish annual impact reports that are available to the public.

Can I visit WAM projects in Tanzania?

Yes! We welcome visitors to see our work firsthand. We organize regular site visits for donors, partners, and interested individuals. Please contact us at admin@wamazingira.org to arrange a visit. We typically require at least 4 weeks' notice to arrange a meaningful experience.

Resources & Reports

Annual Report 2024

Our comprehensive annual report detailing our achievements, financials, and impact across Tanzania.

Download PDF

Project Brochure

An overview of our current projects and initiatives with beautiful photography and impact stories.

Download PDF

Impact Assessment

Detailed analysis of our program effectiveness and community impact over the past 5 years.

Download PDF