DMI in Tanzania
Daraja Music Initiative is in residency in Moshi, Tanzania for 8-10 weeks each summer. DMI volunteer teachers work daily with students at Majengo Primary School, teaching classes in clarinet, strings, general music, and environmental conservation. Students and volunteers explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the Kilimanjaro region during weekly field trips to local environmental and cultural destinations such as Rao Forest, the Cultural Arts Center at Tumaini University Makumira, Materuni Waterfalls, and Arusha National Park. Students gain valuable performance experience and have the opportunity to hear their teachers perform at weekly open mic nights, hosted at Union Coffee in Moshi.
DMI partners with local conservationist Samweli Mochiwa at Kiviwama Indigenous Tree Nursery to deliver tree plantings and conservation outreach events in the community weekly. Volunteers perform at conservation events, sharing their love for music in connection with the conservation of the mpingo tree. In addition to planting new trees, we work hard to ensure a healthy future for the more than 2,000 trees we’ve already planted in the region. Tree pruning, weeding, education, and regular care of DMI’s mpingo inventory continuously engages volunteers and the local community in conservation efforts.
DMI offers volunteer opportunities to music educators, conservationists, instrument repair technicians, college music students, and individuals with a love for music and the environment. In-country volunteers live and work together in Moshi, Tanzania during 2-4 week sessions. Volunteers have the opportunity to build relationships with students, make a direct impact on the community, and contribute to a sustainable future for the mpingo tree. In addition to contributing to the mission, volunteers benefit from a supportive and positive teaching environment, countless opportunities for professional and personal growth, and exploration of the beautiful Kilimanjaro region.
