
Maasai Women Development OrganisationLocation: Tanzania
Founded in: 2000
Communities Served: Moduli, Longido, Simanjiro, Kiteto; Arusha and Manyara regions
Craft: traditional beaded ornaments, jewelry, home accents
Outreach Programs: education and literacy programs; business training; health education
MWEDO works with the semi-nomadic Maasai people of Tanzania, embracing a holistic approach to sustainable development. The organization’s programs focus on economic empowerment, human rights education, adult literacy and girls education, health education in HIV/AIDS prevention and health services. MWEDO’s economic development initiative is centered on the Maasai Women Fair Trade Centre, which trains women in leadership and business skills as well as craft development and quality assurance. MWEDO encourages the formation of women’s cooperatives and then provides the training, materials and marketing assistance that contribute to the success of their income-generating operations.
MWEDO’s education program targets girls of primary school age from pastoralist communities and provides the necessary support to ensure their school attendance. In addition, MWEDO provides literacy classes along with civil rights and leadership training so women have the skills to advocate on behalf of their families and communities for the public services to which they are entitled.
Community Context
The Craft Process
Country of Origin
Fast Facts
Background on Tanzania