what we do
Jump to: Our Programs • A Day in the Life • Meet the Family
From childhood to adulthood, we walk alongside the children of Ujamaa every step of the way.
our programs
Ujamaa Children’s Home
At Ujamaa Children's Home, every child receives:
A safe and loving home, not an institution – with full-time trained caregivers, home-cooked meals, shared chores, and real family bonds.
Private English-medium schooling – ensuring access to quality education, small class sizes, and the best chance of passing national exams.
Healthcare and emotional support – including routine checkups, emergency care, counselling, and social work support.
Daily enrichment – from weekend outings and birthday parties to arts, music, sport, and connection with the local community.
Belonging and identity – rooted in Tanzanian culture, language, and family values.
Every child is nurtured holistically – physically, emotionally, socially, and educationally.
A safe, loving, small-scale home for children who need one most.
Since 2010, Ujamaa Children’s Home has offered long-term, holistic care to extremely vulnerable children referred by the Tanzanian Social Welfare Department. Here, children aged 3–18 grow up in a close-knit, family-style environment with the emotional stability, education, healthcare, and daily joys every child deserves.
Our approach is small by design, just 20–25 children at a time, to ensure deep, individualised care. This is not an institution. It’s a real home, where children are nurtured with love, given the chance to heal, and raised with dignity, support, and a sense of belonging.
forward
together
Our Forward Together program supports Ujamaa young adults with:
Safe transitional housing – shared living spaces in Arusha that balance independence with ongoing support.
Ongoing financial and emotional support – including food, transport, and mentorship from our team.
Tertiary education access – covering university, vocational training, or job-readiness programs based on each young adult’s goals.
Life skills coaching – including budgeting, job hunting, professional communication, and wellbeing.
Continued connection – each young person remains part of our family, with open doors and a safety net for as long as they need.
Forward Together ensures no young adult is forced into adulthood alone.
A soft landing into adulthood.
When our children turn 18, we don’t wave goodbye. We walk forward with them.
Forward Together is our dedicated transition program for young adults who have grown up at Ujamaa. From housing and food to life skills, mentorship and support with university, college or vocational training, this program ensures each young adult can move into independent life with the tools and confidence to succeed.
We are proud to be one of the only care programs in Tanzania offering this kind of long-term support.
support a child of ujamaa
Become a monthly sponsor and support a child’s journey through education, care, and personal growth; from childhood all the way into adulthood.
You’ll receive regular updates and build a meaningful connection. Join the Ujamaa Family today
At Ujamaa Children’s Home, no two days are ever the same, but every day is full of love, laughter, and learning.
Our children wake up in a safe, stable home. They eat nutritious meals, go to school, play football, share chores, do homework, sing songs, laugh together, and grow; physically, emotionally, and socially. Weekends are for family time, creativity, cooking, and community.
Our team includes trained caregivers, social workers, cooks, aunties and uncles, all working together to create a nurturing home environment.
a day in the life
The day begins just after sunrise. Beds are made, uniforms straightened, and the smell of breakfast fills the house (usually porridge, eggs or pancakes). There’s chatter, laughter, and the usual scramble for schoolbooks and shoes. Older children often help the younger ones, just like big brothers and sisters would.
Around 7.30am the children head off to English Medium schools across Arusha, some walking and some by bus. Tanzania’s school system includes Primary (Standard 1–7), O Level (Form 1–4), and A Level (Form 5–6). Education is a central part of every child’s life at Ujamaa.
After school, the house comes alive again. Some children dive into homework, others help in the kitchen, water the garden, or head out to do yoga or play football. There’s also piano practice, art, reading, or tutoring for those who need a little extra support. This is when confidence and curiosity flourish.
As the sun sets, everyone gathers for a shared meal and children take turns helping prepare and clean up. Evenings are calm, with quiet time, stories, reading or one-on-one chats with caregivers. It’s a peaceful end to a day filled with care, connection, and the comfort of family.
the children of ujamaa
"Ujamaa has given me more than just a home but love, hope, and a reason to believe in myself. Before I came here, life felt uncertain. But in Ujamaa, I found people who saw my worth, even when I could not. They supported my education, encouraged my dreams, and reminded me that I matter. Because of Ujamaa, I’m growing into someone I’m proud of. I’ve learned, I’ve healed, and I’ve found a family. I carry their love with me every day and I will never stop being grateful."
Irene
Part of the Ujamaa family since 2016
Ujamaa has given me a home and a family where I feel safe, loved, and protected. Through safaris and so many fun activities, I’ve had the chance to explore the world and create treasured memories. Ujamaa has taught me to be kind, empathetic, and always willing to give. I’ve grown from a shy boy into a confident, open-minded young man ready to face the world, thanks to the quality education and support I’ve received. I feel truly honoured and lucky to be part of the Ujamaa family.
kelvin
Part of the Ujamaa family since 2010
In Ujamaa I have met people who care deeply, not just about my grades, but about me. Whenever I had a problem there is always someone to talk to, someone who listens as family does. In a world where many girls like me might not have the chance to study, Ujamaa stood up and thought that I deserve it. Ujamaa made it possible and reminded me that I have a right to chase my dreams.
nadia
Part of the Ujamaa family since 2015