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Established in 1997, African Initiatives is an international development charity based in Bristol, UK.

Working with local partners in Africa, we support marginalised individuals and communities to exercise their rights. Over the last 17 years we have built trusting and equitable relationships with civil society groups in Tanzania and Ghana through programmes in girls’ education, women’s rights, secure livelihoods and access to health rights. We have successfully changed the lives of thousands of women, men and children for the better.

We share our learning with communities in the UK to change perceptions, challenge inequality and increase understanding of global issues.

In July 2013 I underwent female genital mutilation against my will, because of traditional cultural practices in my country. Once I have an education, I will remove all these oppressions from my family and society. To me, education means revolution and change; people must respect us as equals not because of being a girl or boy.

Victoria is a recently widowed grandmother. She is a magashia, an elected woman leader in her community, and also an advocate for African Initiative’s access to health rights project. Through this she helped a 12-year old girl who was pregnant but afraid to attend a pre-natal clinic for fear of people’s judgement. So Victoria took her to the back entrance of the clinic, and upon arrival claimed that it was she that was pregnant. Once inside, Victoria and the girl were able to tell the doctor the truth. 

Emanyata Secondary school, near the Serengeti national park in Tanzania, is designed to give Maasai students an education while maintaining traditional values, with a focus on cattle farming and agriculture. Working with their partner the Pastoral Womens Council, African Initiatives supports girls through secondary school, ensuring they are able to learn in a safe and supportive environment.