who are we? About Us



Tanzania United Projects for the Deaf (TUPD) popularly known by its Swahili acronym UMIVITA (Umoja wa Miradi Kwa Viziwi Tanzania), is a not for profit non-government organization run by the deaf for the deaf.

The organization was registered on September 2001 with registration No. 11098. It was formed due to lack of employment affecting the deaf people resulted by their low literacy level and social negative attitudes.

Most of the deaf people in Tanzania are not educated and are alienated even by their closet relatives. Many parents are ashamed of their children’s deafness and hiding them for fear of losing status or prestige. Deaf children are often kept at home and given low skill responsibilities such as washing dishes, laundry, tending cattle, ploughing the fields, doing small business for their parents/families, and other leading an immoral life and in a very isolated and desperate situation.

Due to low literacy and negative attitude toward the deaf, their employment level is very low affecting their economic well being and future prospects. Most of the deaf have failed to get employment and opportunities elsewhere are limited

It is that bearing that UMIVITA was established to;

  • Promoting and supporting initiatives toward improvement of the education level of the deaf.
  • Promoting and supporting initiatives for creation of employment opportunities of the deaf.
  • Advocating for acceptance and integration of the deaf in the society.

Vision

To become an organization which stands to fight for the rights of deaf in areas of education, economic empowerment and social justice.

Mission

To prepare enabled environment for the deaf in Tanzania which will enable them to fight poverty

Theme

“Advocacy organization for the Rights of the Deaf”

Core values

  • Respect for Personal Dignity: We believe in a non-judgmental approach that respects the dignity and rights of all
  • Openness to Learning: We continuously learn from stakeholders and remain passionate about our mission
  • Intergrity & Honesty: We work with openness, honesty, and professionalism
  • Empowerment: We focus on sustainable projects that provide long-term solutions
  • Solidarity & Partnership: We believe in the strength of networks and global partnership
  • Accountability & Transparency: We are responsible and transparent in all engagements
  • Equality, Justice & Human Rights: We strive for a peaceful and just society of all
  • Participation & Volunteerism: Our work is grounded in community participation and the spirit of giving

Resources

Coming soon ....

Partners

  • CRDB Bank
  • Foundation for civil societ
  • Tanzanear