ABOUT US

ABOUT US

At UTU JAMII, we believe in the power of "utu," a Swahili word similar in meaning to “ubuntu” that embodies togetherness, a recognition of our joint humanity.  We stand together or fall apart.  As the African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together.”  We believe that businesses, donors, government all want to go far.  Thus, by providing the link between them and communities, we envision a future where businesses and other stakeholders across Africa thrive alongside vibrant communities, where economic growth goes hand-in-hand with social progress, and where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.

Why is this vision so urgent?

Africa is rich in resources. Yet, immense challenges persist. Poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and gender disparities hold back millions from benefitting from the riches of Africa and reaching their full potential. And while businesses seek growth and prosperity, their operations can sometimes exacerbate these issues which in turn threaten their own prosperity and sustainability..

This is where UTU JAMII steps in. We are not just professional consultants; we are partners in progress. We bridge the gap between businesses and the communities they operate within, helping them achieve success while fostering positive social impact.

Our Expertise, Your Success:

We offer a comprehensive suite of services, customized to each client's needs, but grounded in the following core areas:

1.      Training and Facilitation: Empowering your workforce with knowledge and skills for responsible practices. Did you know 70% of African consumers prefer brands with strong social ethics? We train your employees on human rights, labor rights, environmental best practices, and community engagement, ensuring your business aligns with your values and resonates with stakeholders.

Stakeholder Engagement: Building bridges, not walls. We facilitate meaningful dialogue with your employees, customers, suppliers, and local communities. Imagine harnessing the collective wisdom of 400 million youth in Africa! We help you listen, learn, and collaborate, crafting solutions that benefit everyone.

 Business and Social Performance Services: Measuring progress, driving impact. We assess your current social performance, identify areas for improvement, and develop data-driven strategies to enhance your impact. Our tools and frameworks align with international standards like the Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring your efforts contribute to a better future for all.

4.       Participatory Action Research and Assessment: Unveiling the true picture. We work collaboratively with your stakeholders to conduct research that reflects their lived experiences. For example, did you know women constitute 40% of the agricultural workforce in Africa? Our research empowers communities to voice their needs and co-create solutions that address their specific challenges.

5.      Community Engagement Services: Building partnerships, not burdens. We help you forge lasting relationships with the communities you impact. Imagine transforming 200 million rural Africans into engaged partners! We design and implement community development programs that address local needs, build trust, and create shared value.

These core principles need to be applied to a diverse range of sectors:

• Agriculture: Enhancing sustainable practices, empowering farmers, and promoting food security.

• Mining: Ensuring responsible resource extraction, minimizing environmental impact, and investing in local communities.

• Manufacturing: Fostering safe and fair working conditions, minimizing pollution, and promoting decent work.

• Energy: Supporting clean energy solutions, ensuring equitable access, and empowering local communities.

• Finance: Promoting financial inclusion, investing in sustainable development, and creating shared economic prosperity.

• Healthcare: Building resilient healthcare systems, ensuring access to quality care, and empowering communities.

• Education: Promoting quality education for all, fostering skills development, and investing in youth.

• Infrastructure: Developing sustainable and inclusive infrastructure, minimizing displacement, and empowering local communities.

• Technology: Bridging the digital divide, leveraging technology for social good, and promoting responsible innovation.

• Tourism: Fostering responsible tourism practices, protecting cultural heritage, and generating economic benefits for local communities.

It's not just about business; it's about people.

At UTU JAMII, we are deeply committed to social dignity, gender equality, and inclusivity. We champion the voices of women, who are the backbone of African economies and societies. We ensure our work empowers marginalized communities and respects their cultural heritage.

Thus, UTU JAMII is not just a company; it's a movement. We are a network of passionate individuals, businesses, and communities, united by the belief that a better future is possible.

Here are some examples of how UTU JAMII has made a difference:

UTU JAMII in Action:

• Resettlement with Dignity: UTU JAMII ensures communities affected by development projects are not merely displaced, but empowered. Annagrace's experience in projects like Mwadui and Strandline Nyati demonstrate the organization's commitment to fair compensation, dignified relocation, and community-led development plans.
• Women's Empowerment: UTU JAMII provides women with the tools and resources they need to thrive. Training programs on SGBV response, economic rights, and leadership equip women with knowledge, skills, and confidence to become agents of change within their communities.
• Building Bridges Through Dialogue: UTU JAMII facilitates open communication between communities and decision-makers. Animation workshops and participatory research projects break down barriers, promote understanding, and ensure inclusive decision-making processes.
• Alternative Dispute Resolution: UTU JAMII trained and worked with a core group of facilitators to research into community based methods of dispute resolution as an alternative to using the courts in Zanzibar.  These methods have been used successfully to defuse potentially serious conflicts at institutional, community and household level.
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• Beyond Projects, a Vision for Change:

• Championing Gender Equality: UTU JAMII is more than just a consulting firm; it's a movement for social justice. Annagrace's dedication to dismantling systemic inequalities extends beyond projects, actively engaging with feminist movements and organizations to promote women's rights and gender equality across Tanzania.
• Nurturing Future Leaders: UTU JAMII recognizes the importance of investing in the next generation. Annagrace's mentorship of young activists and researchers ensures that the fight for social justice continues, fueled by fresh perspectives and innovative approaches.
• Community at its Core: UTU JAMII's work is rooted in a deep respect for communities and their cultural heritage. Annagrace's commitment to social justice goes beyond technical expertise; it's driven by a genuine desire to improve the lives of those around her, whether it's supporting vulnerable groups during resettlement or providing legal counsel to women facing domestic violence.

Founded on the passion and expertise of Annagrace Felix Rwehumbiza

• Legal Acumen: Armed with a law degree and an LLM in Sexual and Reproductive Rights, Annagrace brings a deep understanding of legal frameworks and human rights principles to UTU JAMII. This foundation ensures ethical and responsible practices in all the organization's endeavours.
• Field Experience: Years of working on resettlement projects, human rights and business collaborations, and gender-related concerns have equipped Annagrace with a wealth of practical knowledge and the ability to navigate complex social landscapes. This real-world experience translates into effective solutions for UTU JAMII's clients and communities.
• Community Engagement: From training women entrepreneurs to facilitating dialogue with community leaders, Annagrace has honed her skills in building bridges and fostering meaningful connections. This collaborative approach lies at the heart of UTU JAMII's work, ensuring all voices are heard and respected.
• Research Expertise: As a skilled qualitative researcher, Annagrace utilizes participatory methodologies to understand the lived experiences of marginalized groups. This data-driven approach informs UTU JAMII's strategies and ensures interventions are tailored to the specific needs of each community.

We invite you to join us on this journey. Share your vision, your challenges, and your dreams. Together, we can weave a brighter future for Africa, thread by thread.