About IRIS FOUNDATION
Giving Every Newborn a Fighting Chance
At IRIS Foundation, we believe that the very first breath marks the beginning of a lifetime—and every child deserves the chance to take it. Based in Tanzania, our organization is committed to preventing and managing birth asphyxia, one of the leading yet preventable causes of newborn deaths and long-term disabilities.
We work hand in hand with healthcare providers, communities, and partners to ensure that no family faces this challenge alone. Through medical support, awareness campaigns, and community education, we equip hospitals with lifesaving equipment, train birth attendants in emergency newborn care, and educate parents on safe delivery and early childcare practices.
Our vision goes beyond saving lives—it’s about building a future where every child enters the world with the promise of health, hope, and opportunity. By empowering local communities and strengthening health systems, we are laying the foundation for lasting change in Tanzania’s newborn care
Mission
To prevent and reduce the impact of birth asphyxia by providing lifesaving medical support, empowering communities with education, and strengthening healthcare systems—ensuring that every child begins life with the best possible chance to survive and thrive.
Vision
A Tanzania where every newborn takes their first breath into a life full of health, hope, and opportunity.
Understanding Birth Asphyxia
Birth asphyxia is a serious medical condition that occurs when a newborn infant does not receive enough oxygen before, during, or immediately after birth. The lack of oxygen can cause severe and permanent damage to the brain and other vital organs, resulting in long-term disabilities such as cerebral palsy, developmental delays, speech impairments, and motor dysfunction.
According to global health data, birth asphyxia is one of the leading causes of newborn mortality and long-term neurological impairments, particularly in low-resource settings. In Tanzania, the burden is alarming due to limited access to specialized care, lack of early intervention programs, insufficient numbers of paediatric occupational therapists, speech therapists, and rehabilitation centres.
Inspired by the personal journey of our daughter, Iris, who suffered from birth asphyxia, we have recognized a critical gap in our healthcare system that urgently needs addressing. Our proposed organization, The Iris Foundation, seeks to be a beacon of hope for affected children and families.
We Bring Hope for Tanzania’s Newborns
Early Intervention & Medical Support
Providing timely care, essential equipment, and trained healthcare professionals to prevent and treat birth asphyxia.
Community Education & Awareness
Empowering parents, caregivers, and communities with knowledge on safe delivery practices and newborn care.
Partnerships for Lasting Change
Working with hospitals, local leaders, and global partners to create sustainable solutions that ensure every newborn has a healthy start.
Advocating for Policy Change
Working with leaders to strengthen maternal and newborn health systems nationwide.
Creating Support Networks
Connecting families with resources and guidance during and after a newborn’s recovery.
Building Community Awareness
Breaking the silence around birth asphyxia and encouraging early medical intervention.
OUR Project Goal
Changing Birth Outcomes, One Baby at a Time
“To establish a specialized rehabilitation centre in Tanzania that provides comprehensive, high- quality care and therapy services to infants and children affected by birth asphyxia, enhancing their quality of life and empowering their families.”
