There are over 1.2 million orphaned children in Tanzania, many of whom have lost one or both parents to poverty, disease, or abandonment. These children face unimaginable challenges such as living on the streets, struggling to find food, and often dropping out of school at an early age. Some are raised by elderly grandparents or overburdened relatives who can barely provide for themselves. Others end up in unsafe environments, vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. 

Kijana Kwanza (Young People First) is a grassroots charity based in Moshi, Tanzania. We support children and young people who have experienced extreme poverty, abandonment, or abuse, helping them access education, vocational training, and life skills, to break the cycle of poverty 

We currently sponsor over 250 children who, with the support of generous donors, receive essential care and opportunities that include: 

• Shelter: Safe accommodation in our children’s homes, foster care, or college hostels.
• Nutrition: Balanced meals prepared on-site or monthly food parcels.
• Toiletries: Monthly personal hygiene supplies.
• Healthcare: Medical insurance and coverage for additional medical needs.
• Education & Training: School fees, uniforms, tutoring, and vocational training.
• Extra-Curricular Activities: Workshops, sports, and community service opportunities.
• Pastoral Care: Emotional and psychological support to ensure well-being.

Halima was left on the streets after losing both her parents and later her aunt. A kind woman took her in and helped her finish primary school but couldn’t afford her secondary education, so she turned to Kijana Kwanza. Thanks to caring sponsors, Halima completed secondary school and is now studying A-levels, determined to reach university and build a better future. 

Halima explains in her own words: 

"Life has been so tough for me so far. I miss my parents to much and I have no other family to rely on. Because of this, I have to be very strong and determined. Despite my struggles, I am motivated to study so I can change my life in the future and become someone more than who I am now." 

Many more children and young people are still waiting for your help.  
Please don’t delay. Donate now. 

About Kijana Kwanza (Young People First)

Kijana Kwanza is a grassroots charity based in Moshi, Tanzania, empowering children and young people to build a future without poverty. 

We directly sponsor over 250 children and young people, most of whom are orphaned, abandoned, or from single-parent families, providing education, vocational training, apprenticeships, and leadership development.

In 2024, we benefited 16,760 Tanzanians through sponsorship, campaigns, events, and microfinance initiatives. We sponsored 250 students, operated across 12 sites, and celebrated 42 new graduates.

In addition to student sponsorship, we offer services like English and computer classes, a Study Café, hardship grants, interest-free loans, and community events to support children, young people, and families in Moshi.

For a full list of our activities, visit www.kijana-kwanza.org. 

Keep updated with our work, join our WhatsApp community group. 

For more information, you can also contact our UK Outreach Worker, Sarah Bibi, by WhatsApp on +44 7954 135 686 or email sarah@kijana-kwanza.org.