The Uvi Foundation for Education, based in the Usambara Mountains of Tanzania, is dedicated to providing children with equal educational opportunities, regardless of their background. Among its many impactful initiatives, the foundation emphasises the importance of music and cultural expression as part of a holistic educational experience.
Learning useful skills
Believing that true learning goes beyond traditional classroom subjects, the foundation regularly organizes music and dance projects during school holidays. These sessions allow children to explore their creativity, express themselves through rhythm and song, and connect more deeply with their community and cultural heritage.
The music program is especially popular among local children, providing a joyful and empowering outlet for self-expression. Through group rehearsals, performances, and creative collaboration, the children gain confidence, develop teamwork skills, and foster a love for the arts. One of the most exciting aspects of the project is the opportunity to create music video clips. These productions teach the children valuable, real-world skills such as choreography, voice recording, video editing, and even social media management. Not only do these experiences build technical and creative abilities, but they also open the door to potential careers in media, music, and digital content creation—offering long-term opportunities for income and self-sufficiency.
Different styles of music
Additionally, learning and performing songs in English significantly improves the children’s language skills. Singing requires them to practice pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation in a fun and natural way. Repeating lyrics helps expand their vocabulary and strengthens listening comprehension. For many, this is the first time they use English creatively, outside of a classroom setting, which builds confidence and fluency. It also motivates them to engage with the language more actively, enhancing their overall communication abilities—skills that are increasingly valuable for their academic future and job prospects.
So far, the Uvi Foundation has produced several uplifting and inspiring music video clips, including “KwiKwi” by Zuchu, “Something Just Like This” by Coldplay, “Courage to Change” by Color Music Choir (originally by Sia), and “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol. Currently in production are “Starlight” by Westlife, “My Stupid Heart” by Walk Off the Earth & Luminati Suns, and “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars—an exciting and dynamic lineup that reflects both local taste and international flair. We recorder also a traditional Tanzanian song mixing local, religious text and some rapping! You can also watch our choreographic efforts to various song like “Orobo” by Toofan (from Togo).
The foundation’s commitment to well-rounded education also includes after-school programs, tutoring sessions, and entrepreneurship training for girls. Music, however, plays a particularly special role—it uplifts, connects, and inspires. Visitors can explore the impact of these efforts through the Uvi Foundation’s YouTube channel, which showcases videos of the children’s musical performances and other community projects.
By integrating the arts into its educational mission, the Uvi Foundation ensures that children not only gain academic knowledge but also build confidence, cultural pride, useful life skills, and strong language abilities—an approach that continues to enrich lives and create lasting change in rural Tanzania.
If you want learn more about our educational projects for kids in the Usambara mountains
