The Story of Anna Mollel
Anna Mollel was a courageous, visionary, and deeply compassionate woman who reshaped what was possible for children with disabilities in Tanzania. In 2013, she founded Engilang’et Primary School, a groundbreaking inclusive school and dormitory for orphaned and differently-abled children. Her life’s work centered on giving children dignity, education, medical care, and a place to belong.
From a young age, Anna challenged cultural expectations about what women could do. Through perseverance and profound love, she became a national and global champion for children with special needs. Her work was recognized worldwide when she received The World Children’s Prize in 2012 for her extraordinary humanitarian contributions.
A School Built on Inclusion and Hope
Engilang’et Primary School quickly became a sanctuary for children who had nowhere else to turn—children facing physical disabilities, chronic illnesses, abandonment, poverty, and social exclusion. Anna believed every child deserved:
- A safe home
- A quality education
- Medical care
- Friendship
- A belief in their own potential
Because of her vision, children who might otherwise have been hidden away or left untreated were instead welcomed, supported, and celebrated.
Seeds of Hope Tanzania & Anna Mollel: A Powerful Partnership
Seeds of Hope Tanzania joined Anna in her mission, helping provide:
- Life-saving surgeries
- Physical therapy
- Food and school supplies
- Tuition and uniforms
- Long-term educational sponsorship
- University support for graduates
This partnership has transformed the lives of countless children.
Nessi's Story
At age 5, Nessi weighed only 18 pounds and could not walk.
She was severely malnourished and needed leg surgery.
Through medical care and physical therapy, she learned to walk and now attends Engilang’et Primary School.
Obedi's Story
Obedi arrived at age 5, very sick and born HIV-positive.
With regular medication and support, he recovered, completed high school, and is now attending Moshi University to become a certified accountant.
Duadi's Story
Due to excessive fluoride in unfiltered water, Duadi developed severe leg deformities.
Seeds of Hope funded corrective surgery and physical therapy.
Today, he attends Engilang’et with restored mobility.
Lengai's Story
Anna met Langai when he was five. He has Pott’s Disease, a serious spinal condition caused by tuberculosis that went undiagnosed when he was only three years old.
Anna convinced his parents to let him attend school - making him the only member of his family to receive an education.
In 2023, he proudly shared his 7th grade diploma.
Lengai is now attending Patandi Secondary School, where he continues to work hard and pursue his education with determination and courage.
Oini's Story
Oini was abandoned at birth because he was born with no arms and one leg,
Oini received a prosthetic leg that is replaced as he grows.
Now in 7th grade, he is a powerful example of what love and education can achieve.