Hadza Fund

The Hadza Fund is a U.S. non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the Hadza community, a traditional hunter-gatherer society living around Lake Eyasi in northern Tanzania.

Mission

The mission of the Hadza Fund is to enhance the health of the Hadza people by increasing access to medical care and supporting research that documents their way of life. The organization aims to promote and preserve Hadza culture while addressing healthcare needs through collaborative efforts with the Hadza community and other Tanzanian partners.

History

Founded in 2011 by Dr. Brian Wood and Dr. Herman Pontzer, both researchers who have extensively studied the Hadza, the Hadza Fund was formally registered as a charitable organization in 2019. The organization's founding reflects a commitment to give back to the community after years of research engagement.

Activities

• Healthcare Support: The Hadza Fund provides year-round ambulance services, covers costs for necessary hospital stays, and offers health outreach and education programs to remote communities.
• Research and Documentation: By supporting research into the Hadza lifestyle, the organization contributes to a deeper understanding of their culture and health context, ensuring that efforts to improve health are culturally sensitive and effective.

Leadership and Partnerships

The Hadza Fund operates under the guidance of its board members, including Carla Wood, Michael Woltz, and Lee McEachern. Along with other researchers like Dr. David Raichlen, the organization collaborates closely with the Hadza community to align its initiatives with local priorities.

Challenges Facing the Hadza Community

The Hadza face significant challenges, including loss of ancestral land, resource depletion, and exposure to modern health issues, making the support from organizations like the Hadza Fund crucial for preserving their traditional way of life.