MTWARA District Council and Heart to Heart Foundation (HtHF) yesterday reached an agreement to build five latrines and 11 rainwater tanks in various primary schools in Mtwara rural.


In the past three years, HtHF has donated about 900,000US dollars to Mtwara Region.


HtHF Country Director, Ms Lee Eun Jeong said they have received funds from Air-Ticket Solidarity Contribution Fund through the South Korean government to assist people in Mtwara Region.


"We have to use the funds carefully and effectively. We expect through such funds to alleviate poverty, disease and increase sanitation and environmental education in Tanzania," she said.


She also promised to continue supporting the people in the country to improve their standards of living.


"I am optimistic that one day I shall live to see the Tanzanian government dispatching their youths to other developing countries as international volunteers to serve development assistance missions," she said.


Heart to Heart Foundation is a Korean non-profit organization located in Seoul and has been working in Tanzania from 2009.


Reacting to the donation, Mtwara District Executive Director, Mr Mshili said he is grateful and impressed as a government officer to work closely with HtHF.


He added that despite the difficult conditions in the region, including floods, lack of electricity as well as other constraints, they have continued to help the people.


"HtHF is doing their best to assist Tanzanians. So I will do my best to assist them while operating in Mtwara," he said.


The main purpose of HtHF activities is to eliminate trachoma by sponsoring and performing surgeries.


The volunteers carry out surgeries for in-turned eyelids, dispense anti-biotic for active diseases, sensitize people on the importance of face washing to prevent infection and environmental change awareness.


Through eye surgeries and follow up management, HtHF has strengthened the sense of hygiene and sanitation in Mtwara communities.