About

We exist to empower and love people through education, medical care, and the Gospel. Our vision is to see individuals and communities in Tanzania transformed—spiritually, physically, and economically—by the power of the Gospel, access to quality education, vocational training, and compassionate medical care. We envision a nation equipped with hope, thriving in purpose, and empowered to build a better future.

compassionate medical care the Good news quality education Vocational training

Our Story

Asking for the Nations (AFTN) was founded in 2007 by Amberly Bell and Jennifer Crawford, after a few life-changing volunteer mission trips to Uganda. Though we didn’t fully know what the journey would look like, we knew we were called to make a lasting impact. Inspired by other organizations, we believed—with faith and passion—that we could help change the world.

Amberly began preaching in Kenya, and soon after, a door opened into Tanzania. It quickly became clear that God had placed us in relationship with people there for a purpose. What began with small steps—preaching at women’s conferences, leading volunteer teams, hosting mobile medical clinics, and teaching children—quickly grew into something much more.

In 2009, we drew the letters “AFTN” in the dirt and prayed for land. We asked God to provide a place where we could serve and build something that would truly make a lasting difference. He answered.

Over the next decade, we focused on building relationships, supporting the construction of colleges and churches in remote areas, and laying the foundation for future impact. In 2019, AFTN broke ground on a primary and vocational school in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania.

In 2022, we opened the Kia Institute of Technology, a vocational school offering sewing, business, and practical skills training. In 2023, New Beginning Pre and Primary English Medium School opened its doors, providing quality, Christ-centered education to children in our community.

Since 2009, AFTN has hosted annual volunteer teams, providing free medical care, educational support, leadership training, and hope through the gospel. These medical clinics revealed a staggering need for accessible healthcare.

In response, AFTN broke ground on Hope International Hospital in 2024. Once completed, the hospital will provide compassionate, accessible medical care to thousands in the region—and continue our mission to make a lasting impact.

Today, the work continues, and we remain committed to empowering people through education, medical care, vocational training, and the love of God.