Over the past 22 years, we have diagnosed and treated 485,283 patients, saving at least 500 lives, most of them children.
Yohanis G. Tenge (60 years old)
As another bustling day unfolded at the Waipakolo Clinic, no one could have anticipated the remarkable story about to begin when Yohanis G. Tenge walked through the doors.
The Sumba Foundation operates five medical clinics in West Sumba, staffed by a dedicated team of 31 ...
Since the launch of our Malaria Control Program in 2004, we have made significant strides in reducin...
Yohanis G. Tenge suffered from chromoblastomycosis followed by squamous cell carcinoma that eventual...
Our Mama 2 Mama Program focuses on caring for pregnant mothers in rural West Sumba. This program add...
Our Eye Care Program is dedicated to alleviating the people of Sumba from eye diseases and assisting...
“Thanks to the Sumba Foundation’s scholarship program, I am happy to be able to study to become a nurse. This opportunity has changed my life, allowing me to pursue my dream of helping others. One day, I hope to give back to my community, and I’m incredibly grateful for the chance to make a difference.”
“I no longer have to walk miles to fetch water every day and can now focus on my education. Having clean water close to home means I can attend school regularly and pursue my dream of becoming a teacher. I’m incredibly grateful for the support that has changed my life and given me hope for a brighter future.”
“Pregnant mothers program provided essential nutrition education and support, which saved both my life and my baby’s by ensuring our health and well-being. This program not only improved our health but also united our community as we shared knowledge and supported each other on this journey.”
“For nearly a decade now, I’ve witnessed and been continually inspired by the Sumba Foundation team’s dedication to improving wellbeing through thoughtful, community-driven programs in water access, health, and local stewardship. Their collaborative and adaptive approach reflects genuine commitment to community needs. It’s been an honor to support a program whose work drives tangible, lasting impact.”
Thanks to my love for the ocean and my love for surfing, I stumbled upon the island of Sumba and found myself wrapped in a still untouched place, where I was immediately struck by the landscape and the warmth of the local inhabitants. During my stay, I had the opportunity to learn about the invaluable work of The Sumba Foundation and, thanks to its initiatives, I got to know the challenges faced by the communities of Sumba, particularly the difficult access to clean water, which has a direct negative impact on the hygiene and health conditions of the inhabitants. For this reason, I decided to contribute with Save The Duck to the Foundation, contributing to the construction and renovation of wells and pipelines to bring water to numerous villages of the island and 1000s of people living them. This collaboration also enables Save The Duck to balance its yearly water consumption, associated with the production of its garments and related materials, by providing back, in terms for equity, clean water to the needs of local people. The goal is to continue developing the necessary infrastructures to ensure direct access to clean drinking water for more and more Sumba’s inhabitants.
“After visiting the Sumba Foundation and participating in school lunches and after-school programs, I was moved by the incredible impact this organization has on the community. Seeing the students’ excitement and eagerness to learn convinced me to become a sponsor immediately. The dedication of the staff and the positive changes in the children’s lives are truly inspiring, and I am proud to support such a meaningful cause.”
“After visiting the Sumba Foundation and participating in the Malnutrition Program for pregnant women, we were inspired to become a regular sponsor. Providing nutritious food and joining the women during check-ups showed us the program’s vital impact on mothers and their babies. It’s incredibly rewarding to support a cause that builds healthier, stronger communities.”
“The Sumba Foundation has been the most inspiring grassroots organization that I have been involved with in my life. Right from the early days of its inception in the early 2000s until now, the foundation has fostered positive changes in the lives of Sumbanese people empowered through health, education, and economic programs while supporting the preservation of Sumbanese culture. The passion of the team led by Claude Graves, Dr. Claus Bogh, and Rainy Octora and all the staff on the ground continues to inspire today. I’m very proud to be a part of the SF team.”
“As a nurse at the Sumba Foundation, I’ve witnessed the incredible impact of providing free medical care, especially in remote areas of West Sumba. The Foundation sponsored my studies so I could return and work at the clinic, where we reduce illness and create a healthier future for families every day. It’s inspiring to see how our work is transforming lives and ensuring a brighter future for everyone.”
“Working with the Sumba Foundation’s Water Project has been a life-changing experience for me. Every day, I see firsthand the impact clean water access has on the health and well-being of communities that once struggled without it. Our team’s efforts not only improve hygiene and reduce waterborne diseases but also give families the opportunity to thrive. It’s inspiring to be part of a project that brings hope and transformation to Sumba.”
“I admire Sumba Foundation as a powerful community where the local children can finally access education out of the government school, especially in English from their early age. Within years, I’ve seen these children develop ability to have short conversations with foreigners about certain topic. I expect to witness other great changes the foundation will bring about in the future.”
“Working as a midwife at the Sumba Foundation Clinic has been incredibly rewarding. Through the Mama to Mama Program, our ultrasound examinations ensure that pregnant women receive the care they need for healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries. It’s fulfilling to see how our work directly improves the health of mothers and their babies, giving families in Sumba hope for a brighter, healthier future. I’m proud to be part of such a dedicated team.”
