Thanks to funding from the Otto per Mille of the Waldensian Church, we were able to continue for another year one of the most important activities we have always carried out at KISEDET for the most vulnerable children and adolescents. Through the WISE project— “Wellbeing and Integration for Street Empowered Children”—we provided assistance to minors living and working on the streets, as well as to children and adolescents victims of forced labor or abuse in Dodoma, Tanzania.
This project didn’t just focus on the children; it also extended support to their families. Over 12 months, we organized awareness-raising meetings with the families and/or legal guardians of the identified children. These sessions, led by our psychologist and social workers, aimed to address the root causes that push minors out of their homes. Ultimately, the project sought to reunite children with their families whenever possible.
Reuniting children with their families is a delicate and complex process, made possible through financial support provided to the beneficiaries. The project covered essential expenses, including school supplies, health insurance, school reintegration fees, and vocational training courses for older children. Additionally, funds were allocated to cover travel costs for children whose families lived outside Dodoma.
The WISE project directly impacted 40 children, aged 4 to 14. Among them, 25 were housed in the short-term shelter “Shukurani,” while 15 attended KISEDET’s day center. Their 40 families were also involved—25 residing in Dodoma and 15 in other regions.
By the end of the project, 32 children were successfully reunited with their families. Out of these, 30 returned to formal education (1 in secondary school and 29 in primary school), while 2 enrolled in vocational training programs.
In addition to KISEDET, which implemented the project, and the Otto per Mille funds from the Waldensian Church, several government authorities were involved, including the Mtaa Executive Officer, the President, and Social Workers, as well as the NGOs Safina Street Network & Upendo Daima.
This initiative has made a real difference, transforming lives and improving delicate family situations through psychological support. Although the project has come to an end, KISEDET remains committed to reconnecting children with their families or legal guardians, ensuring their well-being and a brighter future.
