Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs in Tanzania
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a theory that defines the basic fundamentals we need to survive. Starting from the most basic, the hierarchy goes through the stages as we would go through them when developing and growing as people.
Though, for the most part, in developed countries, we have full access to all of these needs, developing countries are less fortunate. Based on the meaning of the theory, this may suggest stunted development, community-wide, and little opportunity to branch out.
However, there are charities like Islamic Help, that are working towards and fostering growth, as well as the ecological and economic improvement of communities in these regions. That isn’t all though, as we also keep health and lifestyle in mind as a priority.
So today, let’s take a look at a few examples of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs in action in one particular campaign, based in Tanzania.
Physiological
The physiological needs we require to function include things like air, water and food; a couple of the most important essentials.
In Tanzania, Islamic Help is working to establish an almost completely green lifestyle so that residents can rely on sustainability, as well as eco-friendly energy. Our water wells programme provides fresh water, whilst our Trees for Change project, plus the permaculture farm, is helping to ensure clean air circulates (one of the basic needs). This isn’t all though, as the farm also has an impact on food distribution, as well as livelihoods, but we will touch on the latter later on.
Safety
Safety is another required trait, whether that is financial, physical (against illness and harm) or personal security.
At Islamic Help, we have worked hard, and continue to do so, to ensure communities in Tanzania are stable and developing, which is peace of mind in itself. In addition, the permaculture farm, as mentioned earlier, is improving livelihoods, as is the Trees for Change project. This can offer economic security, enabling women to make a living and support their families simultaneously.
In terms of livelihoods though, in 2014, we also launched a project centred on empowering women to expand their skill set with bee-keeping, as well as offering the opportunity for them to move into a more diverse range of markets.
Love and Belonging
Feeling as though we belong is our next necessity, involving interpersonal relationships, like those with our friends and family.
Possibly one of the best ways to establish a sense of belonging is to encourage a close-knit community that works together to foster growth and development. Of course, Islamic Help is always there to help, providing educational tools for children, as well as things that will help to improve livelihoods for the adults.
Esteem
Commonly defined as a desire to receive recognition, as well as acceptance from those around them, esteem also includes the importance of self-worth.
Here at Islamic Help, our programmes aim to foster independence, as well as provide education to children, both of which help to build self-esteem. Also, our village-wide projects have supplied an improved living environment, whilst our livelihood programmes help residents to find their identity and their place within the community, which brings us to our next and final point.
Self-Actualisation
Different to esteem, self-actualisation focuses on the realisation of not only an individual’s full potential, but also where that potential lies.
That is where our programmes come in. Not only do we, as a charity, focus on empowering communities, but we also provide them with the tools and support to achieve too.
This just a small insight into what Islamic Help have done and continue to do in Tanzania, some of which aligns with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. This has all been made possible through your financial contributions and donation of time though, including that of our team of volunteers. So, whether your next step is to join our devoted team or perhaps sponsor an orphan, a huge thanks from us here at Islamic Help for your kind support.
