FAME Africa

FAME Africa Advancing patient-centered care in rural Africa. Patient names are changed, explicit consent granted. Dr. Artress is an American physician. Kilimanjaro.

The Foundation for African Medicine & Education is a non-profit corporation registered in the United States. It was created to improve the quality of medical care in East Africa. FAME endeavors to help bridge the gap between a critically under-resourced healthcare system and first-world medicine. FAME is currently focused on improving the quality and accessibility of medical care in Tanzania and making a difference in the day-to-day lives of the Tanzanian people. He has traveled extensively and participated in medical relief projects around the globe. His wife, Susan, is trained in counseling and educational psychology and has worked for many years in school-based mental health and prevention. Frank and Susan have lived and worked in Tanzania since 2003and currently reside in Karatu, Tanzania. They coordinate and oversee the day-to-day operations of all FAME projects. Certain places on the planet can capture a person's heart and alter the direction of one's life. For us, Tanzania is such a place. At the start of the new millenium we found ourselves at a crossroads and began to experience a shift in how we wanted to spend the second half of our lives. For years, we had talked about climbing Mt. Finally in July of 2002, we began our ascent of the highest peak in Africa. At the time, we could not have known Frank would nearly die atop that mountain, nor how those critical moments would shape the rest of our lives. The perseverance, generosity, and resourcefulness of our guide and his crew awakened us to the resilience of the human spirit - that place inside each of us where grace and strength reside. After several months back in the U.S., we decided to return to Tanzania, this time to contribute back to a people whose voice is rarely heard in the rest of the world, a people who have few opportunities to share their wisdom, their strength, and their dreams with the rest of us. From this place, the Foundation for African Medicine and Education was born. Board of Directors

Frank Artress, Co-Founder & President
Susan Gustafson, Co-Founder & Vice-President
Jeanne Artress, Secretary/Treasurer
Graham Pierce, Director
Jack Paddon, Director
Nancy Paddon, Director

For months, Eli lived with persistent throat pain that made eating and speaking difficult. After multiple visits elsewhe...
01/20/2026

For months, Eli lived with persistent throat pain that made eating and speaking difficult. After multiple visits elsewhere without answers, he was referred to FAME Hospital where timely diagnosis, skilled surgical care and a prepared team made the difference.

Today, Eli is pain-free and back to providing for his family.

Stories like Eli’s reflect the growing role FAME’s surgery program plays in improving lives in rural northern Tanzania.

Full story click the link below:
https://fameafrica.org/journal/2026/20/01

Empowering Traditional Birth Attendants: Strengthening the Bridge Between Communities and Safe Deliveries🌟Across rural T...
01/15/2026

Empowering Traditional Birth Attendants: Strengthening the Bridge Between Communities and Safe Deliveries🌟

Across rural Tanzania, Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) play a critical role in maternal health. Often the first, and sometimes only, point of contact for pregnant women, TBAs are deeply trusted members of their communities. Strengthening their connection to the formal health system is essential to improving outcomes for mothers and newborns.

Recently, FAME welcomed nine TBAs from surrounding rural communities to participate in a training program at our hospital campus. Focused on maternal nutrition, recognizing signs of high-risk pregnancies, and the importance of timely referral and hospital-based delivery, the program sought to reinforce the role of these community health workers as trusted advocates for safe care, helping them guide expectant mothers to health facilities when it matters most.

Participants also toured FAME Hospital, gaining firsthand exposure to the cutting-edge technologies that safeguard maternal and fetal well-being during delivery.

This experience helps demystify hospital care and builds confidence in referring women for facility-based services.

By equipping TBAs with practical knowledge and strong referral pathways, FAME is strengthening the bridge between communities and lifesaving care.

As we move into 2026, FAME is making even greater investments in expanding our education and training programs to include healthcare providers and community health workers from outside of FAME, strengthening the healthcare system and improving the health of the communities we serve 🏥

01/12/2026
Gratitude & Forward Momentum 🌟As we step into 2026 🎉 we are reflecting with deep gratitude on the partners who walked al...
01/09/2026

Gratitude & Forward Momentum 🌟

As we step into 2026 🎉 we are reflecting with deep gratitude on the partners who walked alongside us last year: on site, in clinics, in classrooms and in the community.

From program partners and funders to academic institutions and technical experts, these relationships strengthen our ability to deliver patient-centered care in rural Tanzania and to keep growing what is possible together. These collaborations have empowered us to reach more patients than ever before.

Thank you for your trust, your presence and your shared commitment to impact. We are excited for what lies ahead, together 🌍

University of Pennsylvania Build Health International The Meleka Foundation

Unity is power 💪🏿: When Staff Vibe, Patients Thrive! 💖 One family, one love, rocking it 💕We're thrilled to share how our...
01/05/2026

Unity is power 💪🏿: When Staff Vibe, Patients Thrive! 💖 One family, one love, rocking it 💕

We're thrilled to share how our FAME lab team crushed it together! 🤩 As we closed out 2025, our amazing staff played a secret friend game 🎁 and gave each other a big shoutout for a year of hard work and teamwork! 🤝

Together, we can make 2026 an even better and stronger year, ensuring patient-centered care to all!

Happy new year! 🎉As we step into 2026, we pause with deep gratitude to reflect on all that was made possible in 2025 bec...
01/02/2026

Happy new year! 🎉

As we step into 2026, we pause with deep gratitude to reflect on all that was made possible in 2025 because of you. Your steadfast support helped FAME deliver life-changing care, reach families who once had nowhere to turn and take on medical milestones that brought hope closer to home. These moments, both big and small, are what we’re carrying with us into the year ahead. Thank you for being part of this journey and for continuing to walk alongside FAME as we move forward and achieve even more together.

Begin 2026 with a gift to FAME through a link below:
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/foundationforafricanmedicineeducation?fbclid=IwY2xjawPE6R1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE0RkdrQUxFTDBISjhtSjBNc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHrh4WGf9OtYchSppkBE2cNr_0KGvjGht0fa78gN09xKHll07sP0WGGxuLWT1_aem_pmJFrxJ_uomPDgXS-HxFlQ

12/31/2025

As we close out the year, our founders want to say one simple thing: thank you. 💛

Because of you, FAME Hospital is caring for more patients, handling more complex cases and supporting mothers, newborns and families with dignity and compassion every single day.

If you’re able, there’s still time to make a year-end gift and help us finish 2025 strong. We are deeply grateful to be on this journey with you.

✨ Below is the link to give:
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/foundationforafricanmedicineeducation?fbclid=IwY2xjawPB9dBleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE1cHFJUEdjcHJXTTJJQkx0c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHrJNvNC9T5uQA2hFGy2IiCZbc43GjfVg1LCgbR4Y6bVMbp7UAoIh66OgGNvK_aem_NsldEUVgvxGp6OwOoFgGkg

A Testament of Gratitude: From Mobile Clinics to a Hospital CampusAt 64 years old, Mohammed recently underwent a success...
12/29/2025

A Testament of Gratitude:
From Mobile Clinics to a Hospital Campus

At 64 years old, Mohammed recently underwent a successful surgical procedure at FAME; another milestone in a relationship that stretches back decades. He is not a newcomer to FAME hospital, but someone whose history with FAME began long before the campus existed, in the early days when Dr. Frank and the then much smaller FAME team would conduct mobile clinics in the community.

"I vividly recall when Dr. Frank embarked on his mission here," Mohammed recalled. "I've had the privilege of witnessing the mission evolve from these modest beginnings to the thriving hospital campus it is today," he added, his eyes reflecting a deep sense of admiration. For him, FAME's impact on the rural community in Northern Tanzania is simple and unmistakable: "To be honest, FAME has grown to become an indispensable health facility in our community."

What has stayed with Mohammed most over the years is not just that care is available at FAME, but how it is delivered. He spoke of treatment that feels within reach, of doctors, nurses and staff who lead with love and compassion and of a hospital that treats patients with dignity. He noted the care taken to follow patients closely, to provide medications on time and to offer counseling that supports not only physical healing, but also emotional well-being. The cleanliness of FAME hospital and its peaceful environment, he said, foster a sense of confidence and trust making FAME a place where patient-centered care is not just an idea, but a daily practice that truly supports patient recovery.

Before concluding, Mohammed offered his heartfelt thanks to “This hospital has become a beacon of hope for our community, and for many beyond it,” he said. He also expressed deep appreciation for the volunteers who have shared their time and expertise, noting that their presence reflects a spirit of service that patients feel and remember. Mentioning a recent neurology clinic led by Dr. Michael Rubenstein, Mohammed spoke with sincerity about the compassion that underpins FAME’s work. His gratitude was clear, not just for what FAME has built, but for the care and commitment that continue to define it.

Before he finished, Mohammed had one final thing to say. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Frank and Susan for the vision that brought FAME to Karatu. "This hospital has been a beacon of hope for our community and those beyond," he said. He also extended his appreciation to the volunteers who have dedicated their time and expertise to serving the community. "Their heart-driven mission is a testament to the power of compassion and kindness," Mohammed noted, specifically mentioning a recent neurology clinic led by Dr. Michael Rubenstein from the University of Pennsylvania. Mohammed's words were filled with sincerity and admiration, not just for what FAME has built, but for FAME's unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional care to those in need.

Morning Rounds with Heart ❤️Each morning at FAME begins with a purpose-driven routine that sets the tone for healing and...
12/26/2025

Morning Rounds with Heart ❤️

Each morning at FAME begins with a purpose-driven routine that sets the tone for healing and hope. Our doctors, nurses and social workers move from bed to bed, embarking on morning rounds that are more than just a routine check-in: they are a symphony of care.

Morning rounds are not just clinical; they are where trust is built. Every interaction is a chance to listen, to comfort and to heal. From the gentle touch of a nurse's hand to the reassuring words of a doctor, every moment counts 💫 In a busy hospital, these moments create calm.

During this reflective time of year, we are grateful for the FAME team members who show up every day with skill, compassion and a deep commitment to their patients. It isn’t just about what they do, it’s about how they care.

Please join us in celebrating the tireless efforts of our healthcare heroes!

Dear Friend of FAME,This holiday season, joy is all around us in Tanzania because of you. Your generosity and compassion...
12/25/2025

Dear Friend of FAME,

This holiday season, joy is all around us in Tanzania because of you. Your generosity and compassion continue to bring hope and healing to families who need it most. Because of your support, parents can focus on their children’s recovery, caregivers can do their work with confidence and moments of uncertainty are met with care and dignity.

As families gather, children smile and communities come together, your impact is felt in countless quiet but meaningful ways across our hospital and beyond. You are a part of every life touched.

From all of us at FAME, may your holidays be filled with the same joy, love and light you’ve shared with so many others.

Wrapped in red, big smiling cheeks and already stealing hearts, this sweet baby is a beautiful reminder of why maternal ...
12/21/2025

Wrapped in red, big smiling cheeks and already stealing hearts, this sweet baby is a beautiful reminder of why maternal and newborn care matters 👶🏽💕 This year FAME’s Maternity Center is on track to deliver more than 1,300 babies marking a new milestone in our growth.

Because of your support, mothers in our rural community are able to access safe, compassionate Reproductive and Child Health services: from prenatal visits and skilled deliveries to postnatal care that helps babies like this little guy thrive. Every healthy birth represents a mother supported, a family strengthened and a future protected ❤️ This is what your generosity looks like: A strong baby. A cared-for mother. A hopeful beginning.

Thank you for helping families raise healthy, happy babies who will grow up to shape a sustainable future 🌎

🎉 Celebrating a Legacy of Service 🎉As the year comes to a close, we are proud to celebrate an incredible milestone at FA...
12/19/2025

🎉 Celebrating a Legacy of Service 🎉

As the year comes to a close, we are proud to celebrate an incredible milestone at FAME: the retirement of three extraordinary members of our family. It is not about saying goodbye, but about honoring decades of dedication, commitment and impact. 💛

Please join us in celebrating Digna Kiwia / Mama Mshana (17 years), John Tsea (17 years) and Yustina Msuya (8 years). Through your tireless efforts, expertise and passion, you have made a difference in lives of countless patients, families and colleagues. Your work has left a lasting legacy that will continue to be felt for years to come. We are so grateful for everything you have given to this community.

“We don’t cry because it’s over; we smile because it happened.”

🌟 Wishing you a joyful, well-earned retirement filled with joy, love and adventure. You will always be part of the FAME family.

Address

4553 Crimsonwood Drive
Redding, CA
96001

Website

https://fameafrica.org/journal

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