Our Story: A Legacy of Education and Resilience of Nondwa Village
Nondwa Village is located in Bahi District within the Dodoma Region of Tanzania. Situated approximately 55 miles west of Dodoma town, the village is predominantly inhabited by the Gogo people.
Dodoma is a semi-arid region, experiencing seasonal rainfall only once a year, from December to March. The Gogo people are often referred to as “the little Maasai” due to their way of life, which closely resembles that of the renowned Maasai community.
Nondwa Village is home to “the little Maria”, whose education is sponsored by the Nascimento family, as well as her mother. The little Maria was named in honor of Mdala-Maria’s name in recognition of her leadership in promoting children’s education. Mdala-Maria was among the first settlers in Nondwa Village when the Tanzanian Government centralized villages in 1974.
Mdala-Maria, was born into a family of local leaders; her father, Chief Mpanjilwa, was a respected community leader. He passed away in 1981 at an elderly age. Mdala-Maria and family moved to Nondwa Village in 1974. The centralization program aimed to create communal settlements that would benefit from essential government services such as schools, healthcare centers, and access to clean water.
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Since the 1960s, Mdala-Maria has been deeply committed to ensuring children have access to education. She tirelessly worked to support underprivileged children in attending school. Her efforts were well recognized by the headteachers of Nondwa Primary School, who appreciated her philosophy and advocacy. As a result, the village developed a strong culture of enrolling children in primary education, regardless of financial constraints.
On July 22, 2021, Mdala-Maria passed away at the age of 87. To honor her legacy and the love she left behind, her son, Kangwe Jr., founded the Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation Tanzania (MMCNNGO) at a national level in loving memory of Mdala-Maria.
This foundation, established as a non-governmental organization (NGO), serves as a hub for receiving and distributing donations to support Children’s Education, Clean and Safe Water for the community, the Tree Planting Project and Entrepreneurship.
The name “Mdala” means “Lady” in the Gogo language, reflecting the respect and significance of her legacy.
Nondwa Village has a population of approximately between 650,000 and 700,000 people, including schoolchildren. The villagers primarily engage in small-scale farming, cattle rearing, and charcoal production. The village is home to a natural dam formed by two merging rivers, creating a small lake. A man-made barrier was constructed to contain the water, providing a vital resource for the community. Located about four miles from the village center, residents walk daily to fetch water for drinking and household needs. Local fishing is practiced in the dam, where tilapia is caught for food. This water source sustains both the villagers and their livestock, including cattle, goats, and sheep.
As a community that relies heavily on seasonal rainfall and livestock, life in Nondwa Village is often challenging. Many families struggle to secure enough food and, unfortunately, find it difficult to afford further education for their children beyond primary school.
Nondwa Primary School was established in 1958 after missionaries left the village and the government assumed responsibility for its administration. The school’s buildings are old, with some walls having collapsed due to rain damage. Today, the school has approximately 700 students, 75% of whom lack proper uniforms and struggle to receive at least two meals a day. Most children walk to school barefoot or in worn-out slippers, highlighting the severe level of poverty in the village.
In 2014, her son donated to Nondwa Primary School scholastic materials, sports gear. Nevertheless, he remains committed to preserving Mdala-Maria’s legacy by seeking assistance from compassionate individuals, families, organizations, and other potential firms to support her vision.
Since the days of missionary presence in Nondwa, the village has been home to warm, humble, and spiritual people who live harmoniously and peacefully with each other and with the guests. Some families have relocated to Dodoma town for different reasons, particularly for their children’s education. Many of these families engage in the business of buying and selling charcoal between Nondwa Village and Dodoma town, relying on this trade for survival. The little Maria’s mother, named Veronica Yohana, was among the women who moved to Dodoma town.
Nondwa Village holds tremendous potential to become a reliable center for primary education, supported by a spiritual and motivated community. Mdala-Maria’s legacy continues to inspire families and children to pursue education, but additional support is needed to sustain these efforts.
We remain hopeful that one day, the kindness of generous individuals, families, organizations and other potential firms will help Nondwa village achieve the dream of ensuring that no child is left behind in their pursuit of “education for growth”.
How It All Started
The Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation Tanzania was formally established through a unique confluence of personal connection and shared philanthropic vision. Its genesis traces back to 2021, when a meeting in Zanzibar Island between the Founder and the Nascimento family – Nuno and Christopher – during their vacation proved pivotal.
The family made friends with lots of children visiting their parents during the school vacations and Chris decided to leave his snorkeling gear and toys behind for his new friends (pool picture). Their heartwarming interaction also prompted his spontaneous promise to donate toys, shoes, and books to children in Tanzania, not just to his friends in Zanzibar. It was Chris’s 8th birthday soon after the family returned home and Chris decided to ask all his friends for donations (see the picture of the invitation below), which he and his father continue to work on.
Recognizing the alignment of Christopher Nascimento’s generous impulse with existing community development efforts, his idea was strategically integrated with the ongoing work of the Mdala-Maria Foundation. This foundation was already actively and locally engaged in supporting the Nondwa Village community, with a focus on critical areas such as children’s education, access to clean and safe water, and tree planting initiatives.
The powerful synergy between Christopher Nascimento’s personal commitment to aiding children and the established community-focused endeavors of the Mdala-Maria Foundation created a compelling imperative. This combination of “heartfelt love to the kids,” as observed during the birthday celebration, and the practical framework for community outreach provided the impetus for the formal and “serious establishment” of the Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation Tanzania.
This new entity now serves as a dedicated vehicle for continued philanthropic efforts, building upon the initial spark of generosity and the pre-existing foundational work.
We continue to work on strategic partnerships in support of the foundation’s work and appreciate the commitment of the individuals and corporations that have pledged their involvement.
Our Story: A Legacy of Education and Resilience of Nondwa Village
Nondwa Village is located in Bahi District within the Dodoma Region of Tanzania. Situated approximately 55 miles west of Dodoma town, the village is predominantly inhabited by the Gogo people.
Dodoma is a semi-arid region, experiencing seasonal rainfall only once a year, from December to March. The Gogo people are often referred to as “the little Maasai” due to their way of life, which closely resembles that of the renowned Maasai community.
Nondwa Village is home to “the little Maria”, whose education is sponsored by the Nascimento family, as well as her mother. The little Maria was named in honor of Mdala-Maria’s name in recognition of her leadership in promoting children’s education. Mdala-Maria was among the first settlers in Nondwa Village when the Tanzanian Government centralized villages in 1974.
Mdala-Maria, was born into a family of local leaders; her father, Chief Mpanjilwa, was a respected community leader. He passed away in 1981 at an elderly age. Mdala-Maria and family moved to Nondwa Village in 1974. The centralization program aimed to create communal settlements that would benefit from essential government services such as schools, healthcare centers, and access to clean water.
Read more
Since the 1960s, Mdala-Maria has been deeply committed to ensuring children have access to education. She tirelessly worked to support underprivileged children in attending school. Her efforts were well recognized by the headteachers of Nondwa Primary School, who appreciated her philosophy and advocacy. As a result, the village developed a strong culture of enrolling children in primary education, regardless of financial constraints.
On July 22, 2021, Mdala-Maria passed away at the age of 87. To honor her legacy and the love she left behind, her son, Kangwe Jr., founded the Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation Tanzania (MMCNNGO) at a national level in loving memory of Mdala-Maria.
This foundation, established as a non-governmental organization (NGO), serves as a hub for receiving and distributing donations to support Children’s Education, Clean and Safe Water for the community, the Tree Planting Project and Entrepreneurship.
The name “Mdala” means “Lady” in the Gogo language, reflecting the respect and significance of her legacy.
Nondwa Village has a population of approximately between 650,000 and 700,000 people, including schoolchildren. The villagers primarily engage in small-scale farming, cattle rearing, and charcoal production. The village is home to a natural dam formed by two merging rivers, creating a small lake. A man-made barrier was constructed to contain the water, providing a vital resource for the community. Located about four miles from the village center, residents walk daily to fetch water for drinking and household needs. Local fishing is practiced in the dam, where tilapia is caught for food. This water source sustains both the villagers and their livestock, including cattle, goats, and sheep.
As a community that relies heavily on seasonal rainfall and livestock, life in Nondwa Village is often challenging. Many families struggle to secure enough food and, unfortunately, find it difficult to afford further education for their children beyond primary school.
Nondwa Primary School was established in 1958 after missionaries left the village and the government assumed responsibility for its administration. The school’s buildings are old, with some walls having collapsed due to rain damage. Today, the school has approximately 700 students, 75% of whom lack proper uniforms and struggle to receive at least two meals a day. Most children walk to school barefoot or in worn-out slippers, highlighting the severe level of poverty in the village.
In 2014, her son donated to Nondwa Primary School scholastic materials, sports gear. Nevertheless, he remains committed to preserving Mdala-Maria’s legacy by seeking assistance from compassionate individuals, families, organizations, and other potential firms to support her vision.
Since the days of missionary presence in Nondwa, the village has been home to warm, humble, and spiritual people who live harmoniously and peacefully with each other and with the guests. Some families have relocated to Dodoma town for different reasons, particularly for their children’s education. Many of these families engage in the business of buying and selling charcoal between Nondwa Village and Dodoma town, relying on this trade for survival. The little Maria’s mother, named Veronica Yohana, was among the women who moved to Dodoma town.
Nondwa Village holds tremendous potential to become a reliable center for primary education, supported by a spiritual and motivated community. Mdala-Maria’s legacy continues to inspire families and children to pursue education, but additional support is needed to sustain these efforts.
We remain hopeful that one day, the kindness of generous individuals, families, organizations and other potential firms will help Nondwa village achieve the dream of ensuring that no child is left behind in their pursuit of “education for growth”.
How It All Started
The Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation Tanzania was formally established through a unique confluence of personal connection and shared philanthropic vision. Its genesis traces back to 2021, when a meeting in Zanzibar Island between the Founder and the Nascimento family – Nuno and Christopher – during their vacation proved pivotal.
The family made friends with lots of children visiting their parents during the school vacations and Chris decided to leave his snorkeling gear and toys behind for his new friends (pool picture). Their heartwarming interaction also prompted his spontaneous promise to donate toys, shoes, and books to children in Tanzania, not just to his friends in Zanzibar. It was Chris’s 8th birthday soon after the family returned home and Chris decided to ask all his friends for donations (see the picture of the invitation below), which he and his father continue to work on.
Recognizing the alignment of Christopher Nascimento’s generous impulse with existing community development efforts, his idea was strategically integrated with the ongoing work of the Mdala-Maria Foundation. This foundation was already actively and locally engaged in supporting the Nondwa Village community, with a focus on critical areas such as children’s education, access to clean and safe water, and tree planting initiatives.
The powerful synergy between Christopher Nascimento’s personal commitment to aiding children and the established community-focused endeavors of the Mdala-Maria Foundation created a compelling imperative. This combination of “heartfelt love to the kids,” as observed during the birthday celebration, and the practical framework for community outreach provided the impetus for the formal and “serious establishment” of the Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation Tanzania.
This new entity now serves as a dedicated vehicle for continued philanthropic efforts, building upon the initial spark of generosity and the pre-existing foundational work.
We continue to work on strategic partnerships in support of the foundation’s work and appreciate the commitment of the individuals and corporations that have pledged their involvement.
Our Vision and Mission
Our Vision
To have a community that acquires better education, a good environment and a better life.
Our Mission
The Mdala Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation Tanzania is dedicated to promoting equitable access to education by supporting school uniforms and essential learning materials for children from underprivileged backgrounds. In addition to supporting the school with sports equipment and focusing on pupils’ overall well-being, we strive to improve the educational environment. Our efforts extend to collaborating with schools and communities to foster environmental sustainability through tree-planting initiatives and ensuring access to clean and safe water for all.
In addition, we empower focused group farmers through capacity-building programs and the provision of essential agricultural inputs, ensuring sustainable livelihoods. We also support small industries and entrepreneurs, with a dedicated focus on uplifting youth and women in economic development.
Guided by integrity, trust, and a commitment to sustainable impact, we strive to create lasting change and empower communities for a brighter future.
Our Core Values
Educational Equity
We believe every child deserves access to quality education, regardless of background or income.
Community Ownership
We empower local communities to lead their own development through inclusive participation and decision-making.
Environmental Stewardship
We promote tree planting, climate resilience, and sustainable land use to protect future generations.
Integrity and Transparency
We uphold honesty, accountability, and ethical practices in all our operations and partnerships.
Legacy and Leadership
Inspired by Mdala-Maria’s life, we honor the power of generational change and local leadership.
Gender Awareness
We support women and girls in education, entrepreneurship, and leadership roles to foster equality.
Youth Empowerment
We invest in young people through training, mentorship, and opportunities for economic independence.
Water Justice
We advocate for clean, safe, and accessible water as a basic human right and foundation for health.
Collaboration and Partnership
We work with schools, villages, donors, and government bodies to amplify impact and share knowledge.
Our Objectives
Enhancing Sustainable Education
- Support access to quality education for both children and adults.
- Strengthen lifelong learning opportunities within the community.
Environmental Conservation and Sustainability
- Promote awareness of recycling, clean water preservation, and tree planting.
- Encourage active community participation in eco-friendly practices.
Advancing Renewable Energy and Soil Conservation
- Raise awareness of renewable energy solutions.
- Advocate for soil preservation to enhance long-term agricultural productivity.
Protecting Soil for Future Agricultural Growth
- Implement strategies to maintain fertile soil for sustainable farming.
- Discourage destructive practices that prioritize short-term gains over long-term food security.
Empowering Communities Through Sustainability Education
- Educate individuals on how to build a better future with available resources.
- Provide training on sustainable practices for daily life and economic development.
Improving Soil Fertility Through Lake-Based Nutrients
- Promote the use of natural nutrients from Lake Nondwa to enrich village farmland.
- Enhance soil quality to support healthier and more productive crops.
Sustainability Through Economic Growth and Entrepreneurship
- Foster economic stability and self-sufficiency within the community.
- Equip youth and women with entrepreneurial skills to drive long-term prosperity.
Our Legal Status
Mdala Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation is a legally registered nonprofit organization in Tanzania, officially recognized under registration number 00NGO/R/5607. The foundation is registered under the Non-Governmental Organizations Act, specifically Section 11(1) and Section 17(2) of Act No. 24 of 2002. The registration was officially effected on November 13, 2023.
Our Projects
Education For Growth Project
This project is dedicated to empowering education by supporting school uniforms and essential learning materials for children from underprivileged backgrounds. In addition to supporting the school with sports equipment and focusing on pupils’ overall well-being. The organization also collaborates with key stakeholders, including local governments, to enhance the learning environment through improvements to classrooms, teacher offices, teacher housing, and water supply.
Water Supply Project
This project is designed to enhance access to clean and safe water for the local community by utilizing the Nondwa Village Dam, located four miles from the village. Through capacity building, hygiene education, sanitation improvements, and the development of a reliable water supply system, the initiative aims to address critical water-related challenges affecting households, schools, and public institutions.
Tree Planting Project
his project aims to restore the natural environment and combat the dry conditions affecting the village and surrounding areas by supporting tree-planting initiatives. Recognizing the urgent need for reforestation, the organization will collaborate with local schools and community leaders to plant trees in designated areas within schools and villages.
Income Generating Activities (IGA) Project
This project is designed to empower small industries, farmer groups, individual entrepreneurs, and trainers of trainers (TOT) by enhancing agricultural production and processing techniques. Many small-scale farmers and businesses face challenges in accessing modern methods, efficient technologies, and expert guidance necessary for sustainable growth.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Kangwe Jr.
Founder and Chairperson
Kangwe Jr. Biography
Kangwe Jr. is the Founder and Chairperson of Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation, Tanzania.
A heartfelt initiative was established in loving memory of Mdala-Maria (his mother), who was a passionate advocate for children’s education. Inspired by her legacy, he dedicated himself to empowering communities and ensuring that the values cherished by Mdala-Maria continue to impact lives.
The Founder and chairperson is a skilled eco-tourism and hospitality management expert with a solid foundation in the industry, having worked in various firms across Tanzania and Zanzibar Island. His business management experience and dedication to serving others provide him with valuable insights into operational leadership and community engagement.
Beyond his professional career, he has devoted his time and energy to numerous community development organizations and charity-related efforts, continuously seeking ways to uplift others.
His soft-hearted nature drives his philosophy: “do for love, do for the people.” Rooted in the belief that change begins with individual action, he embraces the mantra: “Be the change you want to see in the world.”
With this vision, he founded Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation Tanzania, channeling his passion into a platform that turns dreams into tangible progress. Under his leadership, the organization remains committed to its objectives, ensuring that education, social welfare, and sustainable development remain at the core of its mission.
Sophia Kachinda Yohana
Executive Secretary
Sophia Kachinda Biography
Sophia Kachinda Yohana serves as the Executive Secretary of Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation, Tanzania, bringing deep compassion and dedication to community service. She holds a Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery from Dodoma Institute of Healthy and Allied Sciences in Dodoma region, where she developed a strong foundation in healthcare and patient care.
Immediately after completing her college studies, Sophia volunteered at Kongwa District Hospital for 9 months, offering her expertise to serve the local community. Her commitment and hands-on experience strengthened her understanding of healthcare needs at the grassroots level, ensuring that people received quality medical support.
With a strong faith and a heart for service, Sophia embodies the true spirit of humanitarian work. Her passion for helping communities and dedication to ethical leadership led her to join Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation, Tanzania, where she actively supports its philosophy and objectives. In her role, she plays a vital part in coordinating initiatives, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the organization operates efficiently to make a lasting impact.
Sophia’s unwavering commitment to the NGO’s mission continues to drive positive change, as she envisions a future where accessible healthcare and community development remain at the core of her efforts
Joyce Gapi
Treasurer
Joyce Gapi Biography
Joyce Jacob Gapi serves as the Treasurer of Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation, Tanzania, bringing a wealth of experience in financial management, tourism, and food production. A graduate with a Diploma in Food Production, Joyce has also honed her skills in tourism activities and accounting, making her a versatile professional with a keen eye for financial oversight.
Throughout her career, Joyce has worked in several tourism and safari companies, excelling as a Tours consultant, Tanzania Safaris planner, Zanzibar Island Vacation organizer and Reservations Manager. In addition, as an assistant accounting personnel. Her dedication, trustworthiness, and hard work have made her an invaluable asset to the organizations she has been part of.
In her role as Treasurer, Joyce ensures financial transparency and efficiency, supporting the NGO’s mission with strategic budgeting and resource management. Her commitment to ethical financial practices has strengthened the organization’s ability to drive impactful community projects. She is passionate about leveraging her expertise to support sustainable development and is committed to fostering financial integrity that will help the NGO grow and thrive
Isaac Sospeter Yohana
Project Manager
Isaac Sospeter Biography
Isaac Sospeter Yohana is the Project Manager of Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation, Tanzania, a role that perfectly aligns with his passion for environmental conservation and community welfare. Holding a Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery from Mtwara College of Health and Allied Sciences (COHAS), Isaac initially pursued a career in healthcare, working for 14 months in a public hospital in the Dar es Salaam region. However, his deep-rooted concern for the environment, especially in the Dodoma region villages where he was born, led him on a different path.
Driven by a mission to save trees, Isaac witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of deforestation in his hometown, where communities relied on charcoal production as a means of survival. Determined to create lasting change, he shifted his focus to finding sustainable solutions for clean and safe water supply and addressing environmental challenges.
His dedication to ecological sustainability and community empowerment led him to Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation, Tanzania, an organization that shared his vision. Isaac’s hard work, dynamism, and commitment have played a significant role in the NGO’s success, ensuring that its objectives are fulfilled and that communities are educated on responsible environmental practices. As a key figure in the organization, he continues to push for solutions that improve livelihoods while protecting natural resources for future generations.
Sylvester Yohana
Research Manager
Sylvester Yohana Biography
Sylvester Yohana serves as the Research Manager of Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation, Tanzania, where he plays a vital role in managing and coordinating research projects, ensuring that data collection, analysis, and reporting drive impactful community initiatives. With a Bachelor of Science in Education, Sylvester has built a strong foundation in academics, dedicating three years to teaching in both government and private schools.
Beyond his professional journey, Sylvester carries a deeply personal connection to the NGO’s mission. As one of the many children who benefited from Mdala Maria Mpanjilwa’s support in education, her legacy remains a guiding force in his commitment to uplifting communities through knowledge and sustainable solutions.
Joining Mdala-Maria & Christopher Nascimento Foundation, Tanzania was a natural step in his pursuit of lasting change, especially in the realm of education, clean water access, tree planting initiatives, and entrepreneurship development.
His unwavering dedication to empowering individuals and ensuring sustainable growth makes him a key pillar in the NGO’s success. Through his research and advocacy, Sylvester is helping shape a future where education and environmental sustainability fuel progress for generations to come.
Our Valued Partners
