THE Amshaamsha Foundation (AAF) is a dynamic non-profit organization dedicated to restoring the climate for current and future generations. Its mission goes beyond survival—it seeks to transform how communities adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

By partnering with youth, local and international stakeholders, scientists, innovators, policymakers, citizens, and faith leaders, AAF is creating an inclusive ecosystem for climate restoration. 

Its approach integrates climate-smart technologies—such as renewable energy and clean cooking solutions—into efforts to improve education, health, livelihoods, and economic activities across Tanzanian communities.

As part of this mission, AAF, in collaboration with Youth Liberty and Psychological Transformation, celebrated International Women’s Day 2025 by bringing together women and men from Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo, and the wider Coastal Region. 

The event focused on storytelling, creativity, entrepreneurship, and environmental conservation. The goal was to inspire active participation in climate action while promoting economic self-reliance.

Participants shared personal experiences and gained knowledge on gender-based violence, environmental sustainability, and economic opportunities. The initiative aimed to nurture a nation that is resilient to climate change and free from environmental harm.

One of the event’s standout participants was Tabu Kilonge, chairperson of the Tufashanwe Group from Kivule Street, Majohe Ward in Ilala District. Her women-led group of 14 members engages in environmental conservation and economic empowerment projects.

With support and training from AAF, Tufashanwe Group learned about gender equality, entrepreneurship, and how to turn waste into wealth. They now produce organic compost from food scraps and plant material—offering affordable fertilizer options for small-scale farmers while protecting the environment.

“We were trained on how to transform waste into an economic opportunity and a conservation tool,” said Tabu. “By composting, farmers can reduce their dependence on costly industrial fertilizers and even earn income from selling compost.”

The group also practices urban farming and poultry keeping, using manure to enhance fertilizer production and maintain chemical-free, organic farming practices. They’ve gone further to sort waste into various categories for composting and even rear insects as a sustainable animal feed option.

Additionally, AAF trained the group in rainwater harvesting to improve access to water and support agriculture year-round. Participants also received financial literacy training, helping them better manage savings, track expenses, and grow their small businesses.

Tabu encouraged more women to engage in environmental and economic initiatives, many of which are supported by the government and NGOs.

“NGOs are instrumental in supporting grassroots communities. I urge the government to continue prioritizing them because they work closely with citizens and truly understand local challenges,” she emphasized.

In Bagamoyo, Dr. Zubeda Kange, Chairperson of the Survival Women Cooperative Society Ltd, shared how seaweed farming—supported by AAF—has changed their lives. Her group now produces seaweed-based products, contributes to marine conservation, and generates sustainable income.

Dr. Zubeda noted that through AAF’s support, their work has attracted attention from development partners, leading to improved market access and funding opportunities. She proudly mentioned a recent promise from the government to provide the group with a boat to assist with harvesting and protect seaweed farms—recognition of their contribution to marine sustainability and women’s economic empowerment.

“Seaweed farming has given us independence. I encourage women to seize such opportunities to become self-reliant,” she said.

Closing the event, Theresia Mcha, Director of Amshaamsha Foundation, emphasized AAF’s broader vision: “We are committed to fostering peaceful, sustainable communities that live in harmony with the environment. Our approach integrates innovative, environmentally friendly solutions to address the climate crisis while promoting equity.”

She added that the International Women’s Day celebration was designed to foster connection among women from Pwani, Dar es Salaam, and Bagamoyo, allowing them to share skills, learn from one another, and build networks that fuel resilience and sustainability.