The Olive Branch for Children
thank you for FOR HELPING US CELEBRATE 10 YEARS OF TUNAKUJALI!
August 30, 2025 in Paderborn, Germany
Our valued German partner organization, Tunakujali Tansania e.V., celebrated its 10th anniversary on August 30, 2025 with an unforgettable event at Tanzschule Stüwe-Weissenberg in Paderborn, Germany. The festivities kicked off with a vibrant dance class for children and youth, led by our talented TOBFC team members from Tanzania – Mlombwa, Lucy, and Putiyei. Over 25 children participated, many accompanied by their parents, all immersing themselves in the rich music, culture, and dances of Tanzania.
Tunakujali Tansania e.V. generously sponsored Mlombwa and Lucy’s trip to Germany so they could contribute to the celebrations. Read more about Mlombwa and Lucy’s first trip to Germany.
As the evening unfolded, attendees mingled during a meet and greet, where they learned more about Tunakujali Tansania e.V. and The Olive Branch for Children (TOBFC) through an impressive informational poster exhibition that adorned part of the auditorium. Hosts Doris Reinhold (Treasurer) and Barbara Schmeling (Deputy Chair) welcomed everyone warmly.
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Two government officials attended the event: Hans-Bernd Janzen, the deputy district administrator, and Martin Pantke, deputy mayor of Paderborn, both of whom delivered inspiring speeches to mark this significant occasion.
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Peter Reinhold, Chair of Tunakujali Tansania e.V., then took the stage, emphasizing the invaluable work done by TOBFC in Tanzania. TOBFC Founder and CEO Deborah McCracken-Nangereke followed, expressing her gratitude to Tunakujali Tansania e.V. with the translation assistance of founding member Andrea Römer.
In a heartfelt interview panel hosted by Barbara and Andrea, Mlombwa, Lucy, and Putiyei shared their personal stories, discussing the profound impact of TOBFC on their lives, their roles within the organization, and their dreams for the future of Tanzania.
The event was further enriched by the presence of original founding members Finn Reinhold and Svenja Treu, whose dedication and vision laid the groundwork for Tunakujali Tansania e.V.'s success. Joining them was our new social media coordinator, Sophia, who previously volunteered in Tanzania with TOBFC. Their attendance highlighted the continuous commitment of both past and present members to the mission of supporting TOBFC’s work in Tanzania.
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The night culminated in joyous Tanzanian musical performances, inviting everyone to sing and dance together in an atmosphere filled with celebration and connection.
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Lucy was a passionate spokesperson at the event for the Menstrual Equity program. This encouraged attendees to donate €1,340, which will enable 400 girls to attend workshops and receive reusable feminine hygiene products. At the celebration attendees also signed up for a total of €150 per month to support TOBFC student sponsorships through TOBFC’s Academic Support program. Tunakujali Tansania e.V. expects further monthly student sponsorship pledges to be made in the next month.​