Growing up on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, surrounded by coffee farms, banana trees, faith, family, and a strong sense of community, Edwin Maleko learned early lessons about service, perseverance, and responsibility. In this episode of Walk Talk Listen, Edwin reflects on his journey from a curious young boy inspired by his father's work with refugees to becoming Program Manager for Sightsavers Tanzania, where he has spent nearly a decade advancing eye health, disability inclusion, and equitable access to healthcare. Along the way, he shares stories of boarding school life, formative mentors, and the experiences that shaped his commitment to development work. The conversation explores what it means to create lasting change rather than short-term projects. Edwin discusses how Sightsavers works alongside government, communities, health providers, and people with disabilities to strengthen systems, expand access to care, and promote health equity. He shares powerful stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed through restored sight and reflects on the importance of locally led development, co-creation, and ensuring that communities themselves shape the solutions that affect their lives. At its heart, this episode is a reminder that meaningful development begins with listening, partnership, and a commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind. Edwin Maleko is Program Manager for Sightsavers Tanzania, where he leads programs focused on eye health, disability inclusion, and inclusive education. With more than 13 years of experience in international development, he has worked across health, education, livelihoods, water and sanitation, and social inclusion. Listener Engagement: Learn more about Edwin Maleko and his work with Sightsavers (website). His Linkedin. Share your feedback on this episode through our Walk Talk Listen Feedback link – your thoughts matter! Follow Us: Support the Walk Talk Listen podcast by following us on Facebook and Instagram. Visit 100mile.org or mauricebloem.com for more episodes and information about our work. Check out the special series "Enough for All" and learn more about the work of the Joint Learning Initiative (JLI).
