Uhuru Mama Collective Empowering Mothers, Transforming Lives
Discover the Uhuru Mama Collective, where 34 mothers of children with developmental disabilities in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, create beautiful handcrafted products and build a brighter future.
About Us
Our Mission
The Uhuru Mama Collective empowers caregivers of children with developmental disabilities through economic opportunities, skill-building, and community support, reducing stigma and fostering sustainable livelihoods in Tanzania.
Our Story
Founded in July 2023 at Uhuru Mchanganyiko Primary School, the collective began when Solfrid Raknes noticed mothers waiting idly while their children attended classes. With support from Professor Mariana Makuu and the school principal, we established a cultural collective rooted in Afrocentric perspectives and Tanzanian values. Today, our 34 members create traditional handicrafts, share skills, and advocate for better conditions for people with disabilities.
The Impact
Uhuru Mama Collective empowers mothers of children with disabilities through community care and creative enterprise.
34
Mothers in the Collective
Trained in mental health & artisan skills
63% → 33%
Mental Health Shift
Marked drop in signs of depression in 6 months
90%
Earn Income from Craft
Women sell bags, baskets, and jewelry globally
“Being part of this collective – it’s like coming up from a deep, dark hole. I feel strong. I feel seen.”
Handcrafted with Love
Explore our collection of traditional Tanzanian handicrafts, including woven baskets, mats, and sewn goods, crafted by the talented mothers of Uhuru Mama Collective. Each purchase supports sustainable livelihoods and advocacy for children with disabilities.
Transforming Lives, One Craft at a Time
Hariet's Journey
Hariet Kabende found purpose and community through the collective, overcoming depression and gaining financial independence through her beautiful handcrafted items.
Mental Health Progress
Before joining, 63% of members showed signs of depression. After six months, less than 33% did, with most cases shifting from severe to mild.
Community Impact
By challenging stigma linking disabilities to superstition, we've created a supportive space for mothers and their children to thrive.
Photo Gallery
Join Our Mission
Shop
Purchase our handcrafted products to support sustainable livelihoods: By purchasing, you directly contribute to creating sustainable income opportunities for the talented mothers in our collective, improving their families’ futures.
Volunteer
Share your skills or assist with workshops and events: We welcome your expertise and involvement by sharing your skills, volunteering, or helping organize workshops and events that empower and uplift our members.
Spread the Word
Follow our social groups to stay updated and share our story: Join our Facebook group to receive regular updates, celebrate our progress, and help spread awareness by sharing the inspiring stories of the mothers and their craft.
Follow Us →Make a Donation
Your contributions fund materials, sewing machines, and transportation (3000 TZS/day per member).
"The collective has given us hope and a sense of belonging."
Connect with Us
Get in Touch
Physical Location
Uhuru Mchanganyiko Primary School, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
info@uhurumamacollective.or.tz
Uhuru Mama Collective
Uhuru Mama Collective
Send us a Message
Our Location
Visit us at Uhuru Mchanganyiko Primary School in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.