Welcome to Natopiwo Partners!
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Two Organizations . . . One Shared Purpose
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Natopiwo 'Lifted Up' is a Tanzanian registered nonprofit, non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting Maasai communities in the Arusha Region of Northern Tanzania through education, conservation, and women's empowerment.
Natopiwo Partners is a U.S. registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose sole purpose is to collaborate with and support the important, ongoing work of Natopiwo.
Learn more and join us in making a difference today!
A longstanding cultural exchange forms the foundation of the relationship between Natopiwo and Natopiwo Partners. Since 2010, Musa Kamaika Meng'arana has supported Luther College’s annual study abroad program in northern Tanzania and has collaborated three times with summer research students funded by the college. Since 2017, Luther’s Center for Sustainable Communities has hosted Musa and other Natopiwo team members three times, most recently in fall 2024.
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A visit to a U.S. kindergarten classroom in 2017 inspired Musa to establish a preschool for Maasai children, helping them prepare for primary school and succeed in their education.
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During his visits to the U.S., Musa has built connections with Luther alumni and supporters across Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Colorado, New York, and Virginia. He has shared stories of his homeland and Natopiwo’s work through presentations in schools, colleges, churches, and community organizations.
Cultural Exchange
​Building Strong Partnerships for Lasting Impact
We’re proud to collaborate with Tanzanian organizations making a real difference in communities — from health and education to environmental conservation and the empowerment of women and girls.
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In May of 2025, Natopiwo and Natopiwo Partners convened seven leading NGOs from the Arusha Region. Together, we explored innovative, locally led, and research-driven solutions for navigating the challenges of a changing climate.
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By strengthening cross-sector partnerships, Natopiwo supports indigenous-led efforts that drive holistic and sustainable community transformation.
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Volunteer Opportunities
Natopiwo Partners welcomes and celebrates the many volunteers who move the work forward! From the preschool parents who ensure the kitchen is clean and plastered, to the hundreds of citizens showing up to move dirt for erosion mitigation; from the volunteers in the US raising awareness and funds to those traveling to Tanzania to assist preschool teachers, there’s a role for everyone to play - ask us how you can contribute! Coming to Tanzania soon? We’d love to welcome you on site!