WAJAMAMA was founded in August 2019 by Nafisa, a U.S- trained and board certified Family and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, and Certified Nurse Midwife.
Nafisa grew up in Zanzibar in the 1990’s, with parents who were two of only ten medical doctors available. The frustration of witnessing people suffering from preventable illnesses has been the driving force behind her life and career. During her undergraduate studies in the United States, Nafisa volunteered for public health projects in Zanzibar aimed at improving the quality of antenatal care, and reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. She realized how negative birth experiences not only have dire consequences for women’s and children’s health, but also the social, mental, and economic wellbeing of communities. Nafisa was inspired to return home and become a much needed resource in the development of services to improve pregnancy, labor, and birth experiences in Zanzibar.
WAJAMAMA stands for WATOTO (children), JAMII (community), MAMA
