News from the frontline:

Meet our everyday heroes and follow the story of our work in Tanzania.

We’re wiping out rabies in Tanzania one town at a time to save children’s lives and end animal cruelty.

1,500 children die of rabies every year in Tanzania. With your help, we can save more lives, sooner.

News from the frontline:

Meet our everyday heroes and follow the story of our work in Tanzania.

We’re wiping out rabies in Tanzania one town at a time to save children’s lives and end animal cruelty.

Every year, 1,500 people – mostly children under 15 – die from rabies in Tanzania, after being bitten by rabies-infected dogs.

Based on research, the World Health Organisation recommends the only way to stop rabies being transmitted from dogs to humans is by systematically vaccinating and controlling the dog populations that carry the disease. Since 2015, we’ve been doing just that. Working with global charities, local partners, volunteer vets and supporters from around the world, we are determined to free Tanzania from rabies, forever.

Read our story →

Four steps to one goal:

Through our sustainable, four-step approach, we are breaking the chain of rabies infection in Tanzania for good

Discover our work →

“I just knew I had to do something”

Our story began in 2014 when our founder, Phyllis, witnessed the tragic impacts of rabies at first hand

Read our story →

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Testimonials

"The excellent collaboration with Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue has enabled us to reach even more communities at risk from rabies and protect them from this horrible disease. Together we can make a real difference in achieving the goal of a rabies-free Meru District.”

Frederic Lohr, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Mission Rabies

“Working with Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue has definitely changed my life. When I first came as a volunteer, Sandra and Jens treated me like a member of the family straight away. The passion and effort they put into their work is just incredible, and this is reflected in the love and care every animal in the shelter experiences. Their aim of improving the lives, and life-chances of  every animal that crosses the shelter’s threshold, no matter how long the stay, is something unique. Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue … a place where miracles happen and stories of laughter and tears are written together.

Birgit Weissinger, Volunteer, Austria

“I’ve worked with a few animal welfare charities, but Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue is special. I first met Jens and Sandra in 2018, and from the first visit they treated me like family. I’ve now undertaken 3 trips and hope to be back again soon. The clinical standards are high, and the charity is undoubtedly improving animal welfare in Tanzania. Over the course of my visits, I’ve worked with some amazing people and made long-lasting friendships. Meru district is such a beautiful part of Tanzania to experience, and I would have no hesitation in recommending volunteering with Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue.”

Ben, Veterinary Surgeon, England

“I originally agreed to go for 3 months, however I’m currently starting my 5th month with no plans to leave any time soon! The work Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue continues to do has been invaluable to the community, and I love being part of it. Owing to the prevalence of rabies here in Tanzania, many people are still scared of dogs. As a result, they throw stones, beat, and even kill dogs in the most barbaric of ways. The team here really are making a difference; fewer rabies cases reported in the area and controlling the street-dog population, through promoting neutering and spaying campaigns.”

Nicole, Veterinary Nurse, England

“I’m 22 years old and I study veterinary medicine at a university in Leipzig, Germany. In 2017, before I started studying, I worked as a volunteer at Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue for 3 months. During my time there, I learned so much about animal care and medical treatment, but it was the people I got to know that made these months the best time of my life. Teamwork and trust in your co-workers contribute hugely to successful animal welfare programmes like this one.”

Alina, Veterinary Student, Germany

“From my first day, I was amazed at the work being done at this shelter. Such warm-hearted people who give their heart and soul for the well-being of the dogs and cats, and who go above and beyond, so that as many animals as possible can survive and thrive. The fact that everything possible is done to protect the animals, and prevent situations arising that will affect their health and well-being, makes this organisation very special.  Vaccination & sterilisation campaigns, educational work in schools … the list goes on. I would go back anytime!”

Jessica Hofmann, Volunteer, Germany

“I came to Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue as a volunteer and left with unforgettable memories, a beloved, new, furry life-companion, and the burning wish to return as soon as possible. Ever since, I've been in close contact with Sandra, Jens and their team and returned several times. The team of dedicated staff are making little miracles happen. Besides getting involved in the daily routine at the shelter, I participated in one of their anti-rabies mass vaccination campaigns. I feel honoured to have been part of such a dedicated team and will continue to support their wonderful and essential work."

Louise Suring, Volunteer, Germany

“I first volunteered with Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue in 2018 for two months. From the very first moment, I felt like part of the team! Every day was so different, we walked all the dogs, washed the puppies or trained some of them. I got an insight into the different training methods and treatments for dogs and cats, and a lot of knowledge about their behaviour. Seeing the great work they do every day inspired me, and being a part of this amazing project is an incredible feeling! I can only recommend this project to everyone who loves dogs and cats and is looking for an ethical, sustainable volunteering opportunity in Tanzania.”

Uli, Volunteer, Germany

“I was welcomed straight away and felt immediately at home thanks to the relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I am still impressed with how much love and patience Sandra and Jens have, to take care of every dog and cat. Injured or orphaned animals arrive at the shelter almost every day. Jens and Sandra show nothing but love for the animals, which very unfortunately are often horribly mistreated in Tanzania.”

Anika, Volunteer, Germany

“Husband and wife team, Jens and Sandra, do incredible work for the dogs and people of Tanzania. Be it through their shelter, their sterilisation clinics, rabies vaccination drives, TVT treatments and educational activities in the schools, they are making a significant difference. I was so impressed with the work of Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue that I have organised six missions to Tanzania since 2017 and can’t wait to get back to help them continue their life saving work!”

Dre Marie-Josée Simard, President, Fondation Aide Vétérinaire Internationale

“We were all introduced to a very friendly, kind and knowledgeable man called Jens who runs Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue and who was the main organiser for the WVS animal de-sexing programme. Throughout my time in Tanzania, I was increasingly impressed with Jens’s passion and dedication for the welfare of animals in Arusha and his focus on educating the community on respectful and responsible dog and cat ownership. The days started early with our setting up a makeshift veterinary surgery, and we would keep going until all the animals signed up were de-sexed, vaccinated and safely recovered.”

Kirsti Sherring, Veterinary Nurse, Australia