
The Shadow of Baobab
On the plains of Kilimanjaro, where time seems to move with the rhythm of the seasons and ancestral traditions, three women invite us to discover their reality.
Martha, Helena, and Sofina are mothers, daughters, leaders, and fighters in a world where patriarchal norms have shaped their destinies since childhood.
Numerous ethnic groups — including the Mchaga, Maasai, Pare, and Wa Arusha — coexist in this land of immense cultural diversity, but also deep inequality. In a country with 127 languages, tradition remains a strong force. This brings enormous richness, but it can also pose a barrier to women’s rights.
In this context, many face forced marriages, lack of access to education, and gender-based violence — yet their story is not only one of oppression, but also of resistance.
Through their voices, the documentary reveals how education, mutual support, and community work are transforming their lives. With the backing of the TATU Project and the Kazi na Sala community, they have found the tools to challenge the system that oppresses them — and to build a new narrative for themselves and for future generations.
Msitu wa Tembo & Londoto Communities, Tanzania. May and June, 2024. Miguel SR