Naomi Chang is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder. At CU, Naomi is part of the Mortenson Center in Engineering for Developing Communities. Unlike most students in her program, she wholeheartedly believes in the importance of hygiene education. This is mainly due to her experiences living abroad during her service in the Peace Corps from 2014 to 2016. Our common interests led Naomi to MSG for her summer practicum experience. Naomi also received a Boren Fellowship to enhance her already seasoned Swahili skills by working with MSG’s staff on a daily basis.
Tanzania: A Special Place
Tanzania holds a special place in my heart. I spent two years in a rural village in central Tanzania as a math and science teacher, creating bonds with students, teachers, and other community members. When I was allowed to return to Tanzania and work with the Maji Safi Group, I jumped at the offer immediately. As the time drew closer to my arrival in Shirati, I became increasingly nervous, afraid that my previous experience might be unique. I wouldn’t be able to connect with the people of Shirati as I did with those in my old village. I was so wrong!
I immediately felt welcome in the Maji Safi family, with several Community Health Educators (CHEs) treating me like a daughter and others like a sister. Not only were they welcoming, they were dedicated and passionate about their work. I was able to participate in almost all the programs offered by MSG, watching firsthand as the CHEs took the time to thoroughly explain waterborne diseases and their symptoms, how to prevent transmission, and how to filter and treat water.
At one primary school, the topic for the week was menstrual hygiene management (MHM). I wanted to see how the CHEs would approach this sensitive topic because I know it can be a complex subject for many. To my surprise and delight, the CHEs were able to create a safe space for girls and boys to openly discuss the topic of menstruation while injecting humor into the subject. Boys and girls were called on to respond to questions and to demonstrate how to attach sanitary pads to underwear. This education is integral to normalizing menstruation for future generations.
How Maji Safi Group Has Helped
Maji Safi Group also has a great relationship with a school for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The CHEs have adapted their lessons to better teach these students, and some CHEs are learning sign language to facilitate the transfer of knowledge further. In a country where people with disabilities face stigma, it is great to see that MSG has provided the opportunity for community members to interact and create relationships with them.
I also remember walking to Lake Victoria and getting lost on my way back. Thankfully, a young lady was walking to the Lake and offered to take me to the main road. While we were walking, she asked if I had swum in the Lake. I responded by saying I was afraid of getting bilharzia. She smiled and then launched into the symptoms and transmission of this disease. Shocked, I asked her how she knew all of this, and she replied, “Maji Safi!” This was further proof of the excellent outreach and educational programs that Maji Safi Group provides. Seeing that a random person was able to identify the symptoms and transmission of bilharzia correctly shocked me and highlights the efficacy of the Maji Safi Group.
A typical scene at the shores of Lake Victoria. Women who have not received education from Maji Safi Group about preventing bilharzia often expose themselves to this disease by going into water contaminated with parasites to wash dishes and laundry.
I can’t paint the complete picture of the dedication and passion of each of the CHEs at Maji Safi Group. Still, my three-month experience working with them was an excellent reminder of why I chose to pursue a career in international development.
Returning To Tanzania: A Life-Changing Experience
In conclusion, the experiences shared reflect the unwavering commitment of the Maji Safi Group to empower communities through education and awareness. Our Community Health Educators (CHEs) embody the spirit of dedication as they break down barriers and foster open discussions on crucial health topics. From menstrual hygiene management to the prevention of waterborne diseases, we strive to create safe environments that promote understanding and acceptance. The positive impact of our programs is evident, not only in the knowledge gained by individuals but also in the strengthened bonds within communities.
At Maji Safi Group, we remain committed to our mission of promoting health and well-being, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or ability, has access to vital information and resources for a healthier future.
