Giving Tanzania's Young People a Brighter Future

We first met Kito when he was 23 years old, after he had spent years surviving on the streets of Mwanza. His childhood was marked by constant instability, moving from place to place. The pressure from his father to excel in school, despite Kito’s struggles and dislike for it, eventually drove him away from home and onto the streets. 

Life on the streets was fraught with hardship. Kito endured countless challenges: being accused of theft, having to sleep on streets filled with danger, and facing the daily struggle to survive. 

Fortunately, everything began to change when we connected with him during our street-based activities. Kito joined the Star Boy Youth Association Group, where he was encouraged to envision a better future. While learning crucial life skills, this opportunity allowed him to focus on a trade of his choice, giving him the tools to transform his life. 

Kito decided to pursue his training further at the Mwanza Vocational Training Authority. He completed a Basic Driving Course with determination and earnt his certification and driving licence. 

This milestone opened the door to his first job with a bus company, driving routes between Mwanza and Geita. With a stable income, Kito could finally begin building a secure and independent life. He now pays his own rent, covers his daily expenses and no longer requires support from Railway Children. 

But Kito’s ambition doesn’t stop here. He dreams of advancing his career by working for a larger bus company, and his excitement and commitment to achieving this goal are inspiring. 

Thanks to your support, Kito had the opportunity to move away from the streets and dream big - and his future now looks bright. 

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• Find out more about our work in Tanzania

We’re excited to update you on the incredible progress of Damas, a young man whose life has taken a positive turn thanks to your support.

Damas first heard about Railway Children through other young people living and working on the streets. They told him about our mission to support young people facing difficult circumstances such as Damas faced. Damas left home ten years ago to escape the harsh punishment and physical abuse he endured from his parents, especially his stepmother. However, like many young people, he soon discovered that life on the streets came with its own set of dangers. He faced harassment from security guards at the bus station and became caught up in drug use and crime.

Despite these challenges, Damas decided to take a step toward change by joining the Nyegezi Youth Association. Through this group, he and other young people received vital training, seminars, and support sessions designed to help them shift their focus toward building a sustainable, positive future.

While attending the youth association, Damas worked as a sub-bus agent at the Nyegezi bus terminal. Through the association, he took the opportunity to learn how to drive a motorcycle and was supported in acquiring one through a loan scheme. Over time, Damas will repay the loan in weekly instalments, and after a year, he will fully own his motorcycle.

Today, Damas is 20 years old and living with his wife and baby daughter. He uses his motorbike as a taxi which provides enough income to support his family, cover rent and meet other essential needs. Looking to the future, Damas dreams of owning his own house and business to ensure long-term financial security for his family.

Damas' journey has been filled with challenges, but with the support of people like you, he has transformed his life and is now providing for his family. His dream of a brighter future is becoming a reality, and it’s all thanks to your generosity.

Thank you for standing with young people like Damas and giving them the chance to build better lives.

Links:

• Find out more about our work in Tanzania