This latest project has been the result of a combination of both the creativity and fun found in baking, as well as the excitement of meeting new people. I believe that each of us has been designed with unique interests and skills, which are intended to be used for the causes that touch our hearts. Since my time in Africa there exists a need within me to raise awareness and necessary materials, in order to enable children to make their dreams of attending secondary school a reality. I have only one fear: Lying on my death bed and regretting that I did not try….
As a new mother, psychology student, newbie resident in Switzerland and wife, I was not exactly sure what I could do now for the children I know and those whom I have yet to get to know in Arusha, Tanzania. My son helped me find the answer. Killian, aged 7 months, loves to be out and about; being friendly is what makes him the happiest. He has given me the confidence to try again, that is, providing information about one of the issues I have been confronted with: The increasing risk presented by HIV/AIDS to uneducated teenage girls. Killian has also reminded me that every child is equal to the next; thus, each child deserves to be educated. Together, my husband and I have devised a plan to get the word out about how you and my family can help those who don’t yet have the opportunities that we have had, and will have. Every Wed and Sat from 8:30am to 12 noon in Riehen Dorf (take tram Nr. 6 – see map), Killian and I will be offering an assortment of delicious homemade American treats, the list includes: chocolate/blueberry muffins, brownies and chocolate chip/oatmeal cookies. Please stop by.
| Goal 1 | Pay school fees for children by: 1) Selling home-baked treats. |
| Our Direct Contact Person in Arusha | My dear friend: Sister Dr. Martha Mao |
| Pro 1 | 100% of the money that we generate is brought by Sister Mao directly to the schools, which the sponsored children attend. Thus, there is no money lost in bureaucracy. |
Here in Switzerland, it seems as if one is paying form the moment of birth until after the grave. At times it is difficult walking down the busy streets of Basel Stadt whilst being presented with tons of different organizations: all making requests for money and not just small sums at that. It hurts to get the stink-eye when you don’t have the time or are uninterested in the cause. Why don’t they understand that you have so many other bills to pay? Sometimes, when I see organizations’ stands, such as UNICEF or Green Peace, I ask myself: How much money is lost in the red tape? Would my donation reach a single person in need?
This is how Moja Dunia differs: we don’t ask you to give us money, we don’t judge you, and we don’t waste the money that we are able to raise. If you like mouth-watering and wish to buy some again from our stand that is great! You have helped us to help others. If your heart compels you to donate, that can easily be done on our website.( Alternatively), if your desire is to become a sponsor of a child in Arusha for a school term, just send me a quick e- mail .We each will have an effect in our own unique way. It is about making your own choice, regarding what you want to do, without any pressure!
It encourages me that you have taken the initiative to visit this website. Thank you for caring,
Sarah
Why Education? Education is the path on which hope lies.
- Education is what the locals, who I know, worry about the most: they have asked me to help them with this problem.
- Their concern is based on the reality that by earning an average income of 500 CHF per year, it is quite difficult for a family of 6 (average number of children pro woman in Tanzania is 4) to send even one of their children to a public secondary school, which costs 180 per year.
- Less than 7% of Tanzanian Children are able to attend secondary school.
- Nevertheless, the story is not all bleak: at least primary school is sponsored by the government.
| Public Secondary School | Private Secondary School |
| Primary Students must pass a government test with high scores, in order to have a chance to attend a cheaper government secondary school. | Students who have not passed the government test often go to Sister Mao and ask for help.These are boarding schools; the children live there whilst school is in session. |
| Costs per year: 150-200 | Costs per year: 600 (The last two years: Gymnasium cost 800 each) |
| Length: 4 years | Length: 4-6 years |
