Rising Hope Organization Tanzania (RIHOTA) was established in 2021 and completed a full registration as a Non Governmental Organization in 2024. It started as a movement between two teachers who had a dream to help the orphans and vulnerable in society by giving them some of the basic human needs like food, clothes, and school equipment such as school uniforms, shoes, exercise books, and pens and pencils. Growing needs led to the establishment of the organization to allow donors to contribute. RIHOTA assists orphans and vulnerable students as well as promoting environmental conservation, leadership skills, and proficiency with technology.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Orphaned students in primary schools in Musoma, in the Mara region of Tanzania, face a number of significant challenges that impact their education and well-being. Some of these problems include:

–Lack of School Needs: Many orphaned students come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and, without parental support, they struggle to afford school uniforms, shoes, exercise books, and other educational materials.

–Limited Access to Learning Resources: Orphans often cannot afford textbooks, stationery, and other supplies, which can hinder their ability to perform well in school.

–Poor Living Environments: Many orphans live with relatives or in informal guardianship arrangements and the homes may not provide a stable or conducive environment for studying. Often, they live in overcrowded or unsanitary conditions.

–Health Issues: Orphans, especially in areas like Mara, often face health challenges, both physical and mental, due to poverty, malnutrition, or inadequate access to healthcare. Poor health can lead to absenteeism and lower academic achievement.

–Uneducated or Illiterate Caregivers: Orphans are often raised by elderly relatives or caregivers who may be uneducated or illiterate themselves. This can result in a lack of support with homework and limited encouragement for academic achievement.

–Gender and Societal Expectations: In some communities, gender norms may also affect orphaned girls more severely than boys, with a higher likelihood of being withdrawn from school for marriage or domestic work. This limits their educational opportunities further.

Addressing the above issues requires a multifaceted approach involving government, NGOs, local communities, and international organizations and donors working together to ensure orphaned students have the opportunity to succeed academically and socially.

We seek your support to help orphaned students stay in school and to promote equality and the value of every child, regardless of their background.