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For every child, from the earliest years
NAEL Foundation works alongside families, communities and partners to help children grow up safe, healthy, educated, resilient and included.
Who we are
NAEL Foundation — Nurturing and Advancing Early Life Foundation — is a Tanzanian not-for-profit organisation committed to improving the wellbeing of children and adolescents from conception through adolescence.
We bring together families, communities, institutions and partners to strengthen the systems children rely on and to create environments where every child can flourish.
Why NAEL Foundation began
NAEL Foundation was born from love, friendship and the heartbreaking loss of a little girl. Her story became a call to equip families and caregivers with the knowledge, confidence and support needed to keep children safe.
A shared beginning
The story begins with two friends, Aika and Beatrice, who walked through motherhood together. Their children were born only five hours apart, and they celebrated each milestone side by side while imagining the futures their children would have.
The joy of Nael
Nael was a healthy, joyful baby girl born into a loving family. At eight months old, she was full of curiosity and wonder. Her laughter filled the home, and her presence brought happiness to everyone around her.
A life-changing moment
One day, Nael picked up a bean that blocked her airway. Although she was surrounded by people who loved her, no one present had the lifesaving skills needed to respond to a choking emergency. Despite their efforts, her life could not be saved.
Purpose and legacy
The founders chose to turn grief into purpose. They established the foundation in Nael's honour to help prevent avoidable child deaths, empower caregivers and give more children the opportunity to grow, learn, dream and thrive.
Our vision
Our mission
Our focus
Integrated health, nutrition, early childhood development, mental health, WASH and emergency preparedness.
Protection, participation and quality inclusive education that helps children learn, stay in school and reach their potential.
Stronger families, communities and institutions with better referrals, resilience, partnerships and evidence-informed decisions.
Get in touch
Contact NAEL Foundation in Mbezi Beach, Dar es Salaam, to learn about our work, partnerships and volunteering opportunities.