Contact Information
Mbeya Office: P. O. Box 2663 Mbeya Tanzania
Mwanza Office: Wurzburg RD, Opposite Bugando Medical Centre, P. O. Box 5208 Mwanza Tanzania
About the Camp
Salama Camp, located in Mbeya, Tanzania, is an overnight camp designed to support children and adolescents living with HIV/AIDS. Established by the Baylor Foundation Tanzania in collaboration with the Serious Fun Children’s Network, the camp offers a transformative experience for its participants.
Purpose and Impact
The primary goal of Salama Camp is to empower HIV-positive adolescents by enhancing their self-esteem, fostering positive relationships, and developing life skills. Through structured activities, peer mentorship, and adult role modelling, the camp aims to improve clinical and mental health outcomes, facilitating a healthy transition into adulthood. tanzaniateenclub.wordpress.com
Activities and Programs
During the camp, participants engage in a variety of activities, including:
- Educational Sessions: Covering topics such as sexual and reproductive health rights, mental health, HIV-related stigma and discrimination, and harmful cultural practices.
- Recreational Activities: Incorporating play, dance, and team-building exercises to promote psychosocial well-being.
- Peer Support: Providing a platform for adolescents to share experiences and support one another in a safe environment.
Partnerships and Support
Salama Camp operates under the support of the Serious Fun Children’s Network, a global community of camps and programs dedicated to children with serious illnesses. This partnership ensures that the camp adheres to high standards of care and offers a comprehensive, medically safe environment for all participants. seriousfun.org
Participant Experiences
Feedback from participants highlights the camp’s positive impact. For instance, a camper named Adam, aged 11, attended Salama Camp and experienced significant personal growth, including increased confidence and a more positive outlook on life.
Salama Camp stands as a vital initiative in Tanzania, providing children and adolescents living with HIV/AIDS an opportunity to experience joy, build resilience, and develop skills that enhance their quality of life. Through its comprehensive programs and supportive environment, the camp plays a crucial role in the psychosocial and clinical well-being of its participants.