Sauti ya Mama
The mother’s voice,
organized.
Sauti ya Mama was born out of grief, but fueled by love and a relentless desire to see women rise above displacement and vulnerability.” — Ketia Pululu, Founder
History
Born from Courage, Driven by Hope
The Heart Behind Sauti ya Mama
Every impactful movement begins with a story of resilience—and Sauti ya Mama is no different.
In 2024, Sauti ya Mama (“Voice of the Mother”) was founded by Ketia Pululu in honor of a deeply painful, yet transformative experience. Having lived for 18 years in the Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Malawi, Ketia witnessed firsthand the silent struggles, gender-based vulnerabilities, and devastating hardships faced by women and girls living in displacement.
The turning point came when Ketia endured the heartbreaking loss of her own mother in the camp—a loss marked by the immense suffering and systemic inequality that too often defines the lives of refugee women. In the depth of that grief, a vision was born: a vision of a world where no mother, daughter, or sister suffers in silence, and where every woman has the tools and opportunity to strive, rise, and lead a dignified life.
Named in honor of her mother’s strength and memory, Sauti ya Mama was built to amplify the voices that are so often muted by hardship and displacement.
Vision
A world where women and vulnerable communities live free from gender-based exploitation, are empowered to realize their full potential, and lead inclusive, resilient, and prosperous communities through social, economic, and civic participation.
Mission
To advance gender justice, holistic well-being, and absolute self-determination for displaced and marginalized women through community-led economic innovation, physical autonomy, and integrated resilience programs.
Our Core Values
Dignity & Respect
We believe every woman and community member possesses inherent worth. We honor individual lived experiences, ensure rights are protected, and cultivate an environment of compassion and mutual respect.
Community-Led Resilience
Sustainable change comes from within. We center the voices of refugee and host community members, equipping them with the skills, tools, and agency to lead their own path to self-reliance.
Inclusion & Social Cohesion
We break down barriers between refugee and host communities. By fostering trust, collaboration, and equal opportunity, we build safe, unified communities where everyone belongs.
Gender Justice & Equity
We actively challenge and dismantle the root causes of gender inequality and exploitation, striving for a world where women and girls are safe, empowered, and free to pursue their potential.
Integrity & Courage
Rooted in the courageous legacy of our founding story, we operate with unyielding transparency, accountability, and the bravery to advocate for those whose voices are muted.
Sustainable Empowerment
We focus on long-term impact over temporary relief by prioritizing economic inclusion, skills development, and sustainable livelihoods that create multi-generational change.
Meet our Board Team
Ketia Pululu
Rehema Songoro
Claudia Mukanziga
Anitha Nyandwi
M’kakuru Nabintu
Mercy Makuluni
Loleko Iselona Tresor
Mary Kadembo