Uvi Foundation for Education is a grassroots initiative dedicated to empowering local communities in Tanzania through education, skills training, and sustainable development. The foundation primarily focuses on vocational training for women and youth, educational support for children, and promoting environmental sustainability. Through various projects, Uvi Foundation for Education aims to break the cycle of poverty by equipping individuals with the tools they need to build a better future.
Empower the women
One of the main objectives of the foundation is supporting women’s empowerment through vocational training. Many women in rural Tanzania lack opportunities for formal education and employment. To address this, the foundation offers training in practical skills such as sewing, tailoring, cooking, and small business management. Women who participate in these programs gain financial independence and the ability to support their families.
As part of its small-scale business initiatives, the foundation runs a Charity Shop at Uvi House & Restaurant in Mambo, Usambara Mountains, where visitors can buy handmade clothes and accessories crafted by young women who have completed the sewing program. The shop also sells locally sourced fabrics, jewelry made from natural seeds and beads, bags, scrunchies, and other handmade items. Every purchase directly supports these young women, helping them build sustainable careers and financial independence.
High quality education for all
Another key focus of Uvi Foundation for Education is providing educational support for children through an afterschool meeting point and tutoring program, which benefits over 200 children. The meeting point is an open space where any child can come during weekends, holidays, or after school to receive academic and personal support. Supervisors are always present to assist children with homework, help them catch up on any school backlogs, and create an encouraging learning environment. This initiative ensures that children have a safe and supportive place for extra learning, helping them improve academically and gain confidence. Volunteers are also welcome to participate by tutoring, mentoring, and organizing creative activities for the children.
At the meeting point, all children also receive daily meals, ensuring that no child goes hungry while learning. Proper nutrition is essential for focus and development, and many of these children come from families struggling with food insecurity. By providing meals, the foundation ensures that they have the energy needed to study, play, and thrive. Additionally, the foundation supplies children with essential school materials such as pencils, pens, exercise books, and coloring pencils, helping them fully participate in their education without financial barriers.
Sponsor a child!
For the most gifted children from the meeting point, Uvi Foundation for Education runs a sponsorship program to provide access to high-quality private schooling. This initiative ensures that talented students, who would otherwise lack opportunities due to financial constraints, can receive a better education and unlock their full potential. So far, the foundation has successfully sponsored over 100 children, covering their school fees, uniforms, and necessary learning materials. Through this program, Uvi Foundation for Education is shaping a future where education is based on talent and dedication rather than financial status, giving children from disadvantaged backgrounds the chance to pursue brighter futures. Read HERE how can you become a sponsor.
Education is more than Maths!
Beyond academics, the foundation is committed to multilevel education, offering children and youth the opportunity to develop their talents and skills in different areas. The music project encourages children to express themselves through song, rhythm, and musical instruments, fostering creativity and confidence. The arts program allows students to explore painting, drawing, and other creative forms, providing them with an outlet for self-expression and artistic development. Additionally, the foundation organizes basketball training, giving young people the chance to develop teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness while participating in a structured sports activity. These programs help build a well-rounded educational experience, ensuring that children are exposed to diverse learning opportunities beyond traditional schooling.
Charity shop
Additionally, the foundation promotes environmental sustainability and supports small-scale local businesses. One of its initiatives, Sisters Factory, specializes in producing natural, homemade products such as jams (mango, plum, pear) and pickles (mango, lime). These products provide an alternative source of income for women and encourage the use of locally available ingredients. The foundation also sells locally sourced spices such as cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and black pepper, as well as coffee from nearby farms, offering visitors the chance to take home a taste of Tanzania while supporting the local economy.
By implementing these projects, Uvi Foundation for Education is not just offering short-term assistance but is creating long-term change. Through education, skills training, creative development, and economic empowerment, the foundation helps individuals and communities move toward self-sufficiency. Each project is designed to provide lasting benefits, ensuring that future generations will have better opportunities and a brighter future.
If you want to become a sponsor or get involved
