Our History

SAWA Wanawake Tanzania (SAWA) is a women-led, non-governmental, non-partisan, non-racial and non-profit organisation established in Morogoro Region. It is registered under the Non-Governmental Organizations Act, No. 24 of 2002, with registration number 00NGO/R/0221. SAWA was founded in 1996 by 12 widowed women facing economic hardship after losing their husbands. Seeking dignity, independence and a better future for their children, they formed a self-help group using savings and lending to support one another. The initiative grew into a wider vision for community transformation. Recognising the importance of early learning, the founders established an inclusive model school for children facing disadvantage and exclusion. SAWA now focuses on early childhood development, quality inclusive basic education, and women’s and girls’ economic empowerment. Solidarity, resilience and collective action guide its work with women, children and families across Tanzania.