A tradition of service, carried forward.

We are building on a family tradition of service to create a structured platform through which communities can access opportunities, support and programmes that contribute to lasting social and economic wellbeing.

The story of SMSF begins with two Tanzanians whose lives were deeply connected to public service, education, leadership and their communities: Samuel John Sitta and Margaret Simwanza Sitta.

Both came from a strong tradition of service. Margaret Simwanza Sitta began her professional life as an educator, serving as a teacher and later as a District Education Officer, education administrator and leader within the teachers’ movement. She went on to serve as Minister for Education and Vocational Training and later as Minister for Community Development, Gender and Children.

Samuel John Sitta likewise dedicated much of his life to public service. He served Tanzania in a number of senior positions, including as Director-General of the Tanzania Investment Centre, Member of Parliament, Minister and Speaker of the National Assembly from 2005 to 2010.

“Speed and standards.”

He was remembered not only for the positions he held, but also for the people he mentored and supported. His life was associated with hard work, integrity, patriotism, humility and a commitment to public service.

SMSF is being established to carry these values forward in a new generation. Its next chapter is about taking a spirit of giving back and turning it into sustainable, organised and measurable community impact.

We will initially build on our connections and experience in Tabora, while working towards reaching communities across Tanzania over time.

Our ambition is not simply to provide short-term assistance. We want to support initiatives that help people learn, become healthier, develop skills, create opportunities and participate more fully in the development of their communities.

Our strategy brings together health, protection, education, leadership and social development around one goal: inclusive opportunity.

We advance inclusive development by empowering communities through health, gender equality and child protection, education and civic engagement, and social sustainability.

We listen to local needs and foster ownership.

We prioritise youth, women and vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities.

We ground action in research, data and proven practice.

We build relationships across communities, government, civil society and partners.

We uphold transparency, integrity and responsible stewardship.

Our family’s connection to Tabora is an important part of our story. It is a place where generations of service, education and community relationships have shaped the values we carry forward.

As the Foundation grows, our ambition is to work with communities across Tanzania—responding to locally identified needs and building programmes with measurable results.

Tabora is highlighted as an important starting point for the Foundation’s work and family roots.

As our work grows, this space will document the people and communities at the heart of it.

We want our programmes to be responsive to communities, grounded in evidence and strengthened through learning and partnership.

01

Understand community needs.

02

Build practical, inclusive programmes.

03

Measure, listen and improve.

We believe lasting progress is built through relationships—with communities, public institutions, civil society, development partners, health professionals, educators and the private sector.

+255 797 990 880
info@sittafoundation.or.tz