Our 100 students attend 12 different government schools. They arrive at Tumaini around their school schedules for tutoring, a nutritious meal, and a safe place to learn. Some come before noon, others in the afternoon, and the school remains busy until after sunset.
A Child Cannot Learn on an Empty Stomach
Masale, age 12, has attended Tumaini since pre-primary school. She and her two older sisters live with their grandmother, who sells peanuts to support them. "Sometimes at home we don't get any food at all, so we have to sleep hungry," Masale explains.
At Tumaini, she receives a nutritious meal that gives her the energy to study and pursue her dreams. For approximately 40 cents per student per day, Tumaini provides freshly prepared meals of rice, beans, vegetables, and fruit—often the children's only complete meal of the day.
Education That Meets Each Child's Needs
Tumaini serves children from pre-primary through Form 4.
Younger students develop reading, writing, mathematics, and English skills. Older primary students prepare for national examinations. Secondary students face an additional challenge: English becomes the principal language of instruction, requiring them to master increasingly difficult subjects while developing their English proficiency.
Our Tanzanian teachers provide the individual attention that students often cannot receive in government classrooms with 100 or more children.
As Headmistress Oliga explains: "Without a tutor, they cannot cope. Tumaini gives them a chance to ask questions they don't dare to ask at school."
Learning, Laughter, and Opportunity
This year, Tumaini's teachers organized the school's first Sports Bonanza, bringing students together for running races, netball, football, games, and friendly competition. It was a joyful reminder that children need opportunities not only to study, but also to play, build friendships, and celebrate their achievements.
Every day at Tumaini looks a little different. But each child finds a place to learn, a meal to nourish them, and teachers who believe in their future.
Thank you for making these opportunities possible.
Read the complete September 2026 newsletter (PDF) →
