DOB – March 6, 2007

Came under Tumaini care in August, 2009

Latifa is Maasai and lived in a very remote Maasai village many miles from Usa River.  The Maasai tribe of Tanzania and Kenya is the most prevalent group of Aboriginals in East Africa.  They are often recognized by their shepherding sticks and bright clothing known as Shukas, which look like draped cloth dresses.

Latifa was born with a club foot.  She was rejected by her father because he feared in his ignorance that she was cursed and would bring bad luck to the village.  Latifa came to Usa River and lived with her grandmother, and that is where I met her.  We attended Dr. Lyimo who sent us on to another Dr. Lyimo (no relation, Lyimo is a very common name in Tanzania) who was an orthopedic surgeon at Machame Hospital near Moshi and we scheduled her surgery.  It cost me $83.00 to change Latifa’s life.  Dr. Lyimo corrected her foot, she was allowed to rejoin her family in their remote village.  Latifa joined us full-time at Tumaini House in 2011.

Latifa… the girl with an attitude (in a good way, though)!  Latifa has a sassy personality and she is EXTREMELY funny.  She is a typical pre-teen who loves to be goofy, laugh and have fun with her friends.  Latifa is a determined, hard-working student which reflects greatly on her school report cards.  She is a kind, gentle soul and always looks out for her younger Tumaini “siblings.”  Latifa is a special treasure here at Tumaini!