We are thrilled to welcome two incredible new team members to the Thrive Global Project Tanzania team: Magdalena Kitinya, our new Tanzania Country Manager, and Zawadi Chilimo, our VICOBA Program Consultant.

Both Magdalena and Zawadi bring deep experience, passion, and community-centered leadership to TGP as we continue expanding educational opportunities, school feeding initiatives, and economic empowerment programs across Tanzania.

Meet Magdalena (Magy) Kitinya – Tanzania Country Manager

Magy joins TGP with a strong background in youth empowerment, education programs, and community development. She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) and has spent years working alongside schools, local leaders, and development partners to create meaningful opportunities for young people and families.

Magy is especially passionate about helping young people build confidence, develop practical skills, and become leaders in their communities. Her experience spans mentorship, program management, stakeholder engagement, digital skills initiatives, and livelihood development programs.

Prior to joining TGP, Magy worked as a Facilitator with RLabs Tanzania in Iringa, where she co-facilitated VICOBA trainings and mentored women entrepreneurs in growing small businesses and increasing household income. She also actively participates in a personal VICOBA group herself, giving her valuable firsthand experience in community savings and lending programs.

In her new role, Magy will help lead and strengthen TGP’s school feeding and VICOBA initiatives while deepening partnerships and expanding community impact throughout Tanzania.

A few fun facts about Magy:

• She loves mentoring young people and helping them unlock their potential
• She runs an online fashion boutique business
• She enjoys organizing programs and events that bring people together
• She is fluent in both Swahili and English

Meet Zawadi Chilimo – VICOBA Program Consultant

We are also excited to welcome Zawadi Chilimo to the TGP team as our VICOBA Program Consultant.

Zawadi brings 11 years of experience as a VICOBA (Village Community Banking) trainer, working closely with communities to strengthen financial literacy, savings practices, leadership, and responsible loan management.

Throughout his career, he has supported VICOBA groups in building sustainable financial systems that empower individuals and families to grow economically and plan for the future. His work focuses on practical financial education, effective group leadership, and helping communities achieve long-term development goals.

Zawadi also holds a certification from the Meru District Council recognizing his qualifications to provide services to community VICOBA groups.

His experience and dedication will play a vital role as TGP continues investing in sustainable community-led economic empowerment initiatives.

Please join us in giving Magy and Zawadi a warm welcome to the Thrive Global Project family!

The VICOBA Program has been made possible by the TIF. Check it out here: Tanzanian Impact Fund