Face Masks for the Most Vulnerable in Tanzania

Introduction

To help reduce risk of COVID-19 infection, we are appealing to you to support local production of cloth masks for distribution to the very vulnerable population in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A dollar may make a huge difference.

Tanzania is one of the poorest countries in the world with 67.9 percent of the population living below the poverty line. While the extent of coronavirus spread in Tanzania is currently unknown, the last reported number of people who tested positive for COVID-19 was around 500. With overcrowding, a norm in Dar es Salaam in public transport and in markets, its just a matter of time before things will get worst.


To prevent spread, face masks have become a key component but with a catch; they are either too expensive or do not meet standards. Surgical masks cost more than one dollar and available cloth masks, though cheap, are of low quality.

Production and Distribution of Face Masks

Based on recent publications, we have produced relatively cheap washable 3-layers cloth masks with a combination of cotton, silk, and cotton/polyester layers that can be washed. These three layers are designed to provide both mechanical and electrostatic filtration. It also boasts high breathability. We are currently producing about 50 face masks per day which we are selling at 1USD.

To meet the growing demand for face masks and ensure availability of proper masks, we intend to produce and distribute free of charge at least 3,500 masks per week amounting to over 15,000 masks a month initially and expand based on the availability of funding.

Funds will be used for the purchase of fabric materials, payment of sewers, and for distribution of face masks. It will also be used for the production of information cards that are distributed with the face masks as shown in the next photo

Funding Schedule
Due to the emergency nature of the pandemic, funds in needed as soon as possible. However, our monthly production capacity will be capped at around 15,000 face masks or equivalent to about 15,000 USD per month.

Management of Funds
Production, distribution, and management of funds will be spearheaded by Mr. Yovin Ivo who holds a Master of Science Degree in Chemistry and works as a research coordinator at the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority as a Research Coordinator. He has experience in implementing various projects including the establishment of the first methadone clinic in Tanzania while he was working with the Drug Control Commission which is under the Prime Minister’s Office.

What does Support Mean to Us
The Covid-19 pandemic has seen a rapid spread and a large number of deaths in various countries including industrially developed nations such as the US and the UK. Therefore, this support may mean life and death to the very disadvantaged people of the world who are much more vulnerable due to various factors including limited access to prevention paraphernalia and poverty.

Appreciations
It is difficult to show appreciation for each donation. However, efforts will be be made to indicate the name of the donor for any donation of 50 USD or more. This will be made by including a small tag indicating the donor of such masks.