The issues that Mwangaza tackles are universal issues, no matter where in the world you live. Although the context may look different, we all face violence and unmet needs in our schools, in our families, and in our communities. 

Last October, Tanzania was gripped by another form of violence we all know too well: political violence. The entire country was shaken by post-election turmoil. The internet was cut off and communication was difficult if not impossible. We are grateful that all Mwangaza staff are safe.

“The president was sworn in on November 3 with 98% of the vote, and the internet eventually came back,” reported Daudi Msseemmaa, advisor to Mwangaza, who lives in Arusha. “A kind of normal returned. The tourist vehicles are again streaming to the national parks and the busy markets are again humming with energy. But mourning, a sense of betrayal, and a desire for justice sit not far beneath the surface.” 

Daudi continued: “As the American teacher and author, Parker Palmer, once said, ‘Violence is what happens when we don’t know what else to do with our suffering.’ And, as another teacher and author, former Tanzanian president, Julius Nyerere, said, ‘If real development is to take place, the people have to be involved.’ In this wisdom of these words is a powerful reminder of why Mwangaza’s work for peace in school communities exists.” 

Involving the people is exactly what Mwangaza decided to do in response to the political violence. With emergency funds from LPGM, they quickly mobilized Trauma Healing and Nonviolent Communication workshops. The two-day workshops equipped community members with practical tools: understanding trauma, naming feelings and needs, and tapping into deep empathy. 

The workshops were a reflection of one of Mwangaza’s core beliefs: we must have peace within ourselves before we can cultivate peace in our communities. By equipping community members with a tool kit of non-violence tools, Mwangaza empowered participants to begin this important first step.

Over the years, Mwangaza has trained and mentored thousands of people through the Safe Schools Initiative, particularly Peace Club students. “Youth, who were at the center of the unrest, are uniquely positioned to take the lead in helping their communities heal,” Daudi said. Thousands of youth across Tanzania are poised to be leaders in non-violence thanks to Mwangaza’s invaluable Safe Schools Initiative.

Mwangaza’s work is a valuable tool in this world, where our training and experience calls us towards real peace - not just the absence of violence.