Baylor Africa New Life Initiative
Following the signing of a MOU in 2020, Baylor University announced the establishment of a partnership with Africa New Life Ministries, a nonprofit organization headquartered in Portland, Oregon and Rwandan run, creating the Baylor Africa New Life Initiative.
This partnership, led by Baylor’s Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, seeks to address and resolve systemic poverty through research and sustained engagement with the communities served in the Republic of Rwanda by Africa New Life Ministries (ANL). The Baylor Africa New Life Initiative has four primary focuses:
- MEDICAL CLINICS: Baylor aims to build 10 container clinics—shipping containers that are outfitted as medical clinics for the Rwandan townships where Africa New Life Ministries provides services. The first clinic shipped in May 2023 and the second is under construction. Take a peak inside the container clinic here.
- RESEARCH: The partnership opens the door for interdisciplinary research promoting human flourishing for vulnerable women, children, and families in Rwanda. Currently, Baylor researchers are assisting ANL with a longitudinal assessment of the well-being of children within the organizations sponsorship program.
- STUDENT EXPERIENCES: Study abroad opportunities have been developed to allow Baylor University students to experience the Rwanda culture, engage in research opportunities, and serve the communities. Students from the Department of Public Health and the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders have participated in these programs.
- CAPACITY BUILDING: Baylor University faculty and students are working with their ANL partners and community members to develop and strengthen skills that can make them more effective in addressing the needs of Rwandans, specifically in the area of child development and well-being.
The opportunity to visit Rwanda with Baylor University and in partnership with Africa New Life is an experience that has permeated every aspect of my life... The opportunity to learn about global health in a different country, experience their way of life, and immerse myself in the culture have carried over into my personal life and will forever influence my professional career as a Nurse Practitioner. —Kat Shaw
Get Involved
There are a number of opportunities to get involved with the Baylor Africa New Life Initiative. Find more details and links about how you can get involved below.
MAKE A GIFT
The Baylor Africa New Life Initiative would not be possible without the generous financial support of many individuals and organizations. Gifts may be made through the link below, or if you would like to discuss your investment in the Baylor Africa New Life Initiative, please contact Robbins College Director of Advancement Christa Oudshoorn at Christa_Oudshoorn@baylor.edu.
STUDY ABROAD
Baylor University students have two opportunities to study abroad in Rwanda. Click the links below to learn more about each program:
- Global Health in Africa (Department of Public Health)
- CSD in Rwanda (Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders)
RESOURCE AND PARTNER
Outside of financial gifts, there are many ways to partner with and support the Baylor Africa New Life Initiative, such as donating building materials or sponsoring a container clinic. For more information about partnering with the Baylor Africa New Life Initiative, contact Beth_Lanning@baylor.edu.
Interested in learning more about the Baylor Africa New Life Initiative? Contact Beth_Lanning@baylor.edu, Professor of Public Health.
Thank you!
We are grateful to our current Container Clinic sponsors, including:
Warlick Electric Company
Graybar
Medical Bridges