Born from "Upendo wa Mama" ("Mother's Love"), mothers living with albinism came together to support one another, provide for our children and challenge the stigma of albinism. Upendo wa Mama (which means "Mother's Love") began as a support group for women who have albinism or have children with albinism. Life for many mothers in Tanzania who have birthed children with albinism is often one of fear
, danger and rejection. Often rejected by husbands and/or by their family or village, many struggle to provide for themselves and their children and live in fear for the lives of their children. They have been discriminated against because of their children, whom they love with a fiercely protective love. Upendo wa Mama seeks to support these women. Our group in Mwanza meets several times a week to support and encourage one another and to work on income-generating projects. They have established THE HIVE, a Honey Centre and Shop for the Mwanza community. Another group meets in Dar es Salaam. Through the profits made from the sales of their products, the women have been able to save and begin other small enterprises at home and they are able to provide for their children. They have been able to learn new skills in addition to artisan crafts through English classes, computer skills classes and sewing classes. They are able to hold their heads high without shame and are delighted to share their skills with others! Follow our journey and join our story!
