Our history
A timeline of hope, dedication and change across rural Zambia.
Dr. Ayodele Okeowo and Mrs. Nsama Okeowo founded Medical Mission of Hope to Zambia after witnessing firsthand the devastating impact of limited access to clean water in rural Zambian communities. What started as a single medical mission trip revealed a much deeper need that could transform entire communities.
Our first water well was completed in Nayuma Village, providing clean water to over 500 people. The impact was immediate: children returned to school, women had time for economic activities, and waterborne diseases dropped dramatically. This success confirmed our mission and approach.
With growing support from donors and partners, MMHZ expanded to reach 10 new communities. We formed partnerships with local Zambian organizations and trained community members in well maintenance, so each project would last.
A major milestone as we completed our 50th well, reaching 50 communities and serving over 30,000 people with clean water. Our model of community partnership and lasting infrastructure became recognized for effective water development in rural Zambia.
During the global pandemic, access to clean water became even more critical. MMHZ sped up well construction and added handwashing stations at well sites, directly supporting public health efforts and helping communities stay safe during the crisis.
We celebrated the completion of our 100th well. By this point our wells were serving over 60,000 people across 80+ communities, with documented improvements in health, school attendance and economic activity in every location.
Today MMHZ has built over 150 wells, serving more than 75,000 people in 95+ communities across Zambia. Our work keeps expanding, bringing hope and clean water to more families every day. With your support, we are working toward a future where every family in Zambia has safe, clean drinking water.
Every well on this timeline was funded by people like you.