As a volunteer with the NGO Go Make a Difference in Tanzania (Go MAD), I had the opportunity to work on construction projects in Musoma, a town on the shores of Lake Victoria. This region, facing a range of socio-economic challenges, benefits greatly from hands-on contributions to infrastructure and community development.
Being part of the Go MAD construction team meant active involvement in planning and implementing projects designed to serve the community. These included building schools, healthcare centers, community spaces, and homes for marginalized families. Every structure represented a step toward greater access, dignity, and stability.
My role on site was practical and varied—preparing foundations, laying bricks, roofing, plastering, painting, and working closely with local builders and artisans. Through this exchange, we not only shared techniques but also built bridges of mutual respect and collaboration.
Go MAD’s approach goes beyond construction. Community engagement was central to the work: consulting local residents, listening to their insights, and ensuring each project aligned with their actual needs. This participatory process promoted a strong sense of ownership and long-term sustainability.
Living and working in Musoma also meant full cultural immersion. We learned the rhythms of local life, participated in traditions, and engaged in daily conversations that deepened our understanding of Tanzanian society.
Conditions on site were often challenging—limited resources, exposure to weather, and the physical demands of manual labor. Yet the sense of shared purpose, the resilience of the local community, and the visible impact of each completed structure made the experience deeply rewarding.
Being part of Go MAD in Tanzania was a journey of real connection—human, cultural, and architectural. The organization provided training, support, and a team environment grounded in solidarity and respect.
