Marafiki wa Elimu Mbeya (MEM) emerged as a result of University students efforts of forming an organization that would bring them together and play part in bringing community development in Rungwe and Busokelo Districts through teaching as volunteers so as to excel in academics. In 2012 University Students from University of Dar es salaam founded so called Rungwe Natives University Students Association (RUNUSA), later on other members from other colleges and universities joined. RUNUSA focused on unity amongst them geared towards helping to teach their young brothers and sisters through teaching as volunteers during their vacations. In 2013 8  RUNUSA members  managed to realize the dream by teaching as volunteer at Isange Secondary School, Lufilyo secondary school and Kisegese Secondary School.

After accomplishment of University studies among the founder members of RUNUSA, organization was no longer as strong as used to be, eventually, finalist collaborated with those who were already graduated to form an organization which would unite ALL, those who are in universities, those who never went to school, and all citizens with spirit of bringing change. Therefore in 2014 MARAFIKI WA ELIMU MBEYA (MEM) was founded.