Tanzania, Ngongongare Village

CONTEXT

In many rural areas of Tanzania, economic opportunity is scarce. While some families are still able to subsist with bartering and small farming, the lack of actualized cash and traditional employment translates directly into a lower enrollment in schools, younger age of arranged marriages and pregnancies, a lack of access to healthcare, and a statistical exclusion of girls in development. Tanzania’s poverty headcount ratio stands starkly at $1.90 a day for 49.4% of the population. Many families struggle to earn the income necessary to enroll in schools and pay for the associated costs such as uniforms, books, and materials. Furthermore, enrollment in traditional schools has seen a dramatic decrease in the past two years due to the many effects of COVID-19. Unplanned pregnancies and severe financial instability resulted in many young girls specifically, being excluded from traditional schooling. Once access to schools is taken away, there are no real educational opportunities for these young women anymore.

Jifundishe has a  very unique approach to education as it provides a  free library with educational resources to local villagers.  The library is considered much more a “community center” than a library and is an oasis in a landscape that is devoid of educational opportunities and materials that are freely accessible. 

Before construction

After construction

Project Type

Construction of two new classrooms and the purchase of a piece of land

Side project: Sewing machines

Construction Period:
Sep 2022 – February 2023

Side project: 1 month

Budget

50.190€

Side Project Budget

4.292€

Children

25

Partner

Jifundishe

Donor

Private Donor

PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION

Jifundishe seeks to create a new and relevant branch of vocational programming to the community center and library. In order to accommodate this expansion,  Jifundishe seeks to purchase an adjoining plot of land and construct two classroom facilities (alongside a nearby bathroom facility).  The vocational launchpad will begin with a  one-year pilot program to include 25 individuals (preference given to young mothers, expelled students, and independent study participants).  The initial skill focus will be tailoring, sewing,  and shoe repair.  After an initial six-month training period, participants will be invited to use the machines,  materials,  and space for their own needs and sales.  

SIDE PROJECT: SEWING MACHINES

In support of promoting and supporting the Vocational Launchpad, this project aimed at purchasing sewing machines for the students to use as part of their vocational training. This vocational training program will help many girls and women acquire income-earning skills.