From Anti-GBV Champion to Child Welfare Leader: The Inspiring Journey of Mackrine Rumanyika

In the heart of Arusha, a visionary leader is rewriting the future for thousands of girls. Mackrine Novatus Rumanyika, the Founder and Executive Director of Health Integrated Multisectoral Development (HIMD), has emerged as one of Tanzania’s most influential voices in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Her dedication to protecting the marginalized has earned her prestigious accolades, cementing her legacy as a champion for child rights.

Mackrine founded HIMD (formerly HIMS) in September 2003 with a clear mission: to promote integral health and socio-economic empowerment for marginalized groups through participatory approaches. Under her leadership, the organization has focused on “Mindset Transformation,” a powerful approach to ending harmful traditional practices like Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and child marriage.

Mackrine’s unwavering commitment was thrust into the national spotlight in December 2024. During the Anti-GBV Awards 2024, organized by WiLDAF Tanzania and the MKUKI Coalition, she was honored as a “Champion of Change”.

Specifically recognized for her work in the category of preventing child marriage, Mackrine was one of only 16 individuals selected through an extensive national voting and vetting process. This award celebrated her innovative strategies in rescuing girls and providing them with safe havens when their rights were most at risk.

Building on her momentum, Mackrine was again recognized for her extraordinary impact during the 2026 Zero Tolerance events. In a historic ceremony held in Monduli, Arusha—a district where HIMD has focused much of its life-saving work—Mackrine was named the Women’s Champion in Child Welfare and Protection.

This prestigious award was presented by the Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Dr. Dorothy Gwajima. Please note that while the official records in the sources mention an Anti-GBV ceremony in Dar es Salaam on February 5, 2026, the details regarding the Monduli venue and Dr. Dorothy Gwajima’s presentation are based on your specific report of the event.

This recognition underscores the success of Mackrine’s “Mindset Transformation” approach, which moves beyond temporary rescue to create lasting community change

Under Mackrine’s leadership, HIMD has achieved remarkable results in protecting the next generation:

Health for the Remote: In July 2024, Mackrine led the re-establishment of the Ekenywa Health Facility, ensuring that women and children no longer have to walk 10km for essential care.

186 Girls Rescued: To date, HIMD has successfully rescued 186 girls from FGM and child marriage, ensuring they are enrolled in school programs.

287 Ex-Mutilators Transformed: One of Mackrine’s most unique successes is the “harvesting” of 287 former mutilators who have now become champions for change in their own communities.

Safe Haven: The organization has established a permanent Safe House, providing temporary shelter and a path to education for survivors.

For Mackrine, the work is far from over. Her future focus for HIMD includes securing land for a dedicated Day Care center, expanding health outreach to even more remote villages, and strengthening the network of people who fight against FGM and child marriage.

As Mackrine often says, “Silence never solved anything. Speak up against violence, and let your voice be heard!”. Her journey reminds us that with courage and persistence, a future free from violence is possible for every child in Tanzania.