ABOUT US
The vision of Tabibu Africa, Inc started in 2012 when a group of aid workers got to talking on their trip back from working in Kenya on a humanitarian expedition. They had a dream to do more, out reach more, and expand on the work that is so desperately needed.
Somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean at approximately 12,000 feet elevation, the name, "Tabibu Africa" came to life. The Kukuyu people in Kenya say that Tabibu means "to heal". One of the founders had been given the name, Tabibu, by the Kukuyu people on her third humanitarian expedition and the name stuck.
Welcome to Tabibu Africa, Inc. We are dedicated to ensuring that every donation you make goes directly to those in need in East Africa. With all administrative costs covered by our board members, 100% of your contribution supports our vital work with women and children in the region Through our volunteer-led expeditions, we strive to alleviate suffering and bring hope to the poorest communities, ensuring that your generosity has a meaningful impact. Thank you for joining us in this important mission.
"Tabibu Africa" ... Heal Africa.
Four friends got together and created an organization that spreads compassion, sustainable aid, and basic human aid to those most in need in Africa.
Little Hands Making Big Differences
Tabibu Africa, Inc's Founders and Board Members
Jody Gzhawdasot Mattena
"Tabibu" "Naretisho"
President & Founder
George Mattena
"Msingi" " Olonana"
Vice-President and co-founder
In February 2006, Jody embarked on her first humanitarian expedition to Kenya, where she witnessed the devastating effects of a seven-year drought. The suffering she encountered was unimaginable, with countless lives lost due to a lack of food and water. Yet, amidst the despair, Jody found a profound sense of faith, love, and happiness among the people, which transformed her own spirit. This journey ignited her passion for helping others, leading her to continue to return to East Africa, each trip deepening her understanding and commitment to making a difference.
In 2012 Jody, among the other "Founding Four", dreamt up Tabibu Africa, Inc and brought it to fruition in the form of sustainable and workable aid through education and empowerment along with a medical branch.
Jody was gifted the name "Tabibu" in 2009 which means "to heal" in Swahili. In 2013 she was adopted into a Maasi village and honored with the name "Naretisho" which means Always Helping in Ma (Maasai). She hopes that she can continue to live up to these names of honor for as long as possible.
Through education and empowerment, George believes Taibu Africa can help equip individuals with the tools and knowledge to transform their futures and those of their children. With his plumbing background, George often ponders how he can make a difference. Initially, he didn't see himself as a contributor beyond his trade, but his experiences in a health clinic haven now shown him otherwise. He has helped develop a hygiene education program and taken on the role of a teacher in sanitation classes, with his next goal being to ensure access to clean water and teach communities how to create their own water filters using everyday materials. Witnessing the empowerment in others as they learn, and grow is truly inspiring for George.
Life is fleeting, and each moment is an opportunity to make difference. George believes that one doesn’t need a specific degree or career to contribute; every one of us has a role to play. Together we can create change and uplift those in need. Let’s embrace our potential and take action, because every effort counts.
George has earned the name "Msingi" by the Kikuyu people which means "foundation" and "Olonana" by the Masai which means "ancient one"
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Kurtis Short
Treasurer
Rachel Fleecs
Interim Medical Director
Welcome to our new interim Medical Director, Rachel! Since joining us in May 2023, she has made remarkable strides in advancing the medical branch of Tabibu Africa, Inc. We are thrilled to have her our team and can't wait see her shine. Living in the rural Rocky Mountains with her husband and three dogs, Rachel is a full-time ER nurse and a dedicated volunteer for both Tabibu Africa and her local fire department, where she passionately serves her community while exploring the roots of medicine and healing.
Kurtis has dedicated his journey to helping others ever since he became an Americorps VISTA. Currently working with a non-profit focused on victim advocate support, he leverages his Bachelor's in Criminal Justice and two years of non-profit experience to make a meaningful impact in communities. With a strong background in securing funding and organizing group classes and fundraisers, Kurtis is excited to extend his reach as the treasurer for Tabibu Africa. His hope is to touch more lives and create positive change, no matter where he is.
Bishop Fred Afwai
"Mahatma"
Kenya Secretary &
In-Country Director
Fred Afwai and his wife, Alice, have been integral to Tabibu Africa, Inc since its inception. With an understanding of the challenges faced by children in broken or poor homes and communities, they have dedicated their lives to providing love, education, and safety to the youth of Kenya. Their journey began more than 20 years ago with the establishment of Candlelight Primary School and Safe house in Kayole and has since expanded to include multiple schools and an orphanage in Kitale. As our Kenyan Secretary and In-Country Director since 2016, Fred continues to inspire us all, and we eagerly anticipate the many programs and outreach initiatives that lie ahead.
Corrie Goodier
"Wima" "Naishipia"
co-founder
AJ Jolley
"Shujaa" "Mirishi"
co-founder
Corrie Wima had always dreamed of Africa. When she was eight years old she bought a cassette tape to learn Swahili. In 2012 her dream finally came true and she traveled to Kenya to work with a medical humanitarian organization.
Corrie worked so hard in the medical clinics, never taking a break, and always holding the hands of her patients. She was given the Kikuyu name "Wima" which means "always steady" and "Naishipai" by the Masai which means "the happy one".
Corrie retired from her positions at Tabibu Africa, Inc in 2024 and will continue to be a cherished member of the "Founding Four"
AJ Shujaa Mirishi's journey to Kenya began in 2011, igniting a passion for service that has only grown stronger. From digging wells and building classrooms to providing medical assistance and teaching character-building lessons, AJ has dedicated himself to uplifting communities. A pivotal moment came when he comforted a young girl suffering from severe cerebral malaria, holding her through the night as she fought for her life. Thanks to his unwavering support, she made a miraculous recovery, solidifying AJ's commitment to making a difference in Africa.
Though AJ retired from the Board of Directors in 2019 he continues to be one of the "Founding Four" and will always be cherished and remembered.