ruffo

From Passion to Profession — The Story of Mwamvita

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:12:33 GMT

Mwamvita Laurent’s journey

Mwamvita Laurent’s journey is a powerful story of transformation—one that begins with a simple passion and grows into a life-changing opportunity.

Before everything changed, Mwamvita loved to draw. It was something she did naturally, a quiet talent that allowed her to express herself. But like many young women facing economic and social challenges, she did not see her passion as a pathway to a career. Art was something personal—something done in the background—not something she believed could sustain her future.

That began to change when she joined the Tumpe Binti Thamani (Give Her Value) program by Raising Up Friendship Foundation in Dar es Salaam.

Through the program, Mwamvita gained more than just skills—she gained a new sense of self. She was supported through training in life skills, financial management, and personal development, alongside one-on-one coaching that helped her set goals and believe in her potential.

“Before RUFFO, I was just drawing for myself. I didn’t think it could take me anywhere. But they helped me see that my talent has value—and that I can build a future from it.” — Mwamvita Laurent

For the first time, she began to see her drawings not just as art—but as opportunity.

With growing confidence and determination, Mwamvita made a bold decision: she relocated to Paje Zanzibar to pursue her dream. In a new environment filled with tourists and opportunity, she saw the chance to turn her passion into something sustainable.

Today, Mwamvita is a proud business owner. She runs her own art shop in Paje, where she creates and sells original, hand-drawn artwork. Each piece reflects not only her creativity, but also her journey—one of resilience, growth, and self-discovery.

“Now, my art is my work. It supports me, and it makes me proud. I want other girls to know that what they love can also become their future.”

What began as a simple hobby has now become her profession

The Program Behind the Transformation

Mwamvita’s story is just one example of the impact of the Tumpe Binti Thamani (Give Her Value) project.

Many young girls in urban communities face stigma, economic hardship, and limited opportunities. Some are labelled or excluded, while others carry the burden of supporting their families at a very young age. Without support, they are at risk of falling into cycles of marginalization.

RUFFO created this program to change that narrative.

1. Economic Strengthening & Social Empowerment

Participants are equipped with essential life skills, including goal-setting, communication, financial literacy, and awareness of gender-based challenges. These tools help them build confidence, make informed decisions, and assert their value in society.

2. One-on-One Life Coaching

Each participant receives personalized mentorship, providing a safe and supportive space to address individual challenges, set goals, and develop practical strategies for growth.

3. Vocational Training & Real Work Experience

Girls are given hands-on training in areas aligned with their interests, allowing them to gain practical experience and build sustainable livelihoods.

A Story of Impact

Mwamvita’s success is not just about opening a shop—it is about transformation.

She has moved from uncertainty to independence, from self-doubt to confidence. Today, she is not only supporting herself, but also inspiring others to believe in their own potential.

Support Mwamvita’s Work

Mwamvita’s artwork is unique, personal, and deeply meaningful. Each piece tells a story—not just of creativity, but of empowerment.

Visit her shop in Paje, Zanzibar
Purchase her artwork directly through RUFFO
Follow her journey on TikTok

And as Mwamvita herself would say;

“Karibu Zanzibar! Ukifika Paje, don’t just take photos—take a piece of art home too. Support your girl! My drawings are waiting for you.”

Giving Her Value

Based in Dar es Salaam, Raising Up Friendship Foundation continues to empower young women through Tumpe Binti Thamani.

Mwamvita’s story is proof of a simple but powerful truth:

When a girl is given value, she creates value—for herself, her community, and the future.

Part-Time Business Admin & Fundraising Assistant

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 11:52:13 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Job Advertisement

We’re Hiring! Part-Time Business Admin & Fundraising Assistant

Organization : Raising Up Friendship Foundation (RUFFO)

Location : Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Schedule: 2 days per week

About Us

Raising Up Friendship Foundation is a women-led, youth-serving NGO dedicated to

empowering women and children through education, advocacy, and community-driven

solutions.

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Part-Time Business Admin & Fundraising

Assistant to support financial administration for one of our donor-funded projects and help

grow our fundraising efforts. This role includes an incentive-based commission for

successfully bringing in organizations sponsoring their staff for the Girls 4 Girls course.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage financial and administrative tasks for a donor-funded project

• Maintain accurate records and reports

• Research and engage potential partners and sponsors

• Identify opportunities to expand program participation and fundraising

Requirements

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

• Basic computer skills (MS Office, Google Workspace)

• Comfortable engaging with potential sponsors and partner organizations

• Passion for community development and empowering women and children

Work Schedule & Pay

• 2 days per week (flexible hours)

• Base pay plus commission incentives based on organizational sponsorships secured

How to Apply

Send your CV and a short cover letter to info@ruffo.or.tz with the subject line: Part-Time

Business Admin & Fundraising Assistant – Your Name.

Deadline: [25-08-2025]

RUFFO Joins WHO in Signing MOU to Advance Public Health Services in Tanzania

Wed, 08 May 2024 11:21:23 GMT

RUFFO Joins WHO in Signing MOU to Advance Public Health Services in Tanzania

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania - On May 8th, 2024, Raising Up Friendship Foundation (RUFFO) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the World Health Organization (WHO), alongside other non-state actors. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing public health services across Tanzania.

The MoU was signed on behalf of RUFFO by Executive Director and Co-Founder Hilda Ngaja. Dr. Charles Sagoe-Moses, the WHO country representative, highlighted the importance of this collaboration in addressing the country's health challenges. He noted that the partnerships will enable WHO to leverage the expertise, resources, and networks of these organizations to address the health challenges the country faces.

The signing ceremony marked the culmination of an extensive process that began with an expression of interest launched in December 2022. Out of 46 submissions, RUFFO was was one of 11 selected through a rigorous evaluation and the FENSA process, mandated by the World Health Assembly in 2016.

Hilda Ngaja expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "This MoU signifies a critical step forward in our mission to empower women and children in Tanzania. We are honored to collaborate with WHO and other esteemed organizations to enhance disease prevention, health promotion, and innovative healthcare solutions. This partnership will enable us to make a significant impact on public health services across the country."

RUFFO is proud to be part of this initiative and remains dedicated to its mission of empowering women and children in Tanzania. The organization looks forward to working closely with WHO and other partners to improve access to quality healthcare services, strengthen health workforce development, and promote the use of innovative technologies in healthcare delivery.

The signing of the MoU represents a shared vision of improving public health in Tanzania, highlighting the critical role of partnerships in achieving the health for all agenda.

School Visit

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:32:29 GMT

Empowering Vulnerable Students: RUFFO Participates in Welcome Event at Kerezange Secondary School, Kitunda, Ilala, Dar es Salaam

On February 9th, 2024, RUFFO had the privilege of participating in a special event held at Kerezange Secondary School in Kitunda, Ilala, Dar es Salaam. The event, aimed at welcoming incoming form one students, provided an opportunity for RUFFO to engage with students, educators, and community members, and to promote initiatives that support the well-being and empowerment of both boys and girls.

During the event, representatives from RUFFO introduced the organization and its mission to support vulnerable students through various projects and initiatives. Among these initiatives is the Sitanyamaza club, which advocates against violence and promotes the importance of speaking out against abuse and injustice.

The Sitanyamaza club plays a crucial role in providing a safe space for students to discuss and address issues such as violence, abuse, and discrimination. Through activities and discussions led by the club, students are empowered to recognize their rights, build self-confidence, and seek support when needed.

As part of the event, RUFFO participated in the launch of the school anthem, which aims to inspire students to embrace courage, freedom, and resilience in their academic pursuits. Additionally, RUFFO collaborated with partners to launch environmental and creation books, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation and the role of a safe and healthy environment in supporting students' well-being and academic success.

The event also provided an opportunity to recognize the achievements of Sitanyamaza club members, particularly form four students who received certificates of recognition for their dedication and commitment to the club. These students shared their experiences and highlighted the positive impact that the club has had on their personal growth and academic performance.

In addition to celebrating achievements, the event also served as a platform for dialogue and collaboration. Sitanyamaza club members expressed their aspirations for further support and recognition of their talents, underscoring the importance of nurturing their potential and providing opportunities for personal and artistic expression.

RUFFO extends its gratitude to all participants, including students, educators, and community members, for their involvement and support. As an organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable students, RUFFO remains committed to fostering an environment where all students can thrive, achieve their full potential, and contribute positively to their communities.

RUFFO and Fountain Gate Unite to Champion Women's Football Equality

henryemma284@gmail.com (Henry Manyasi) — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:16:47 GMT

Usawa Mpirani

RUFFO and Fountain Gate, two leading organizations in Tanzania, have joined forces to advocate for gender equality in women's football. In a groundbreaking collaboration, they recently held a joint press conference to announce the launch of the "Usawa Mpirani" project.

The initiative aims to address the challenges faced by women in football, including dispelling stereotypes and ensuring equal recognition for their contributions to the sport. Despite efforts by the national football federation, women's football continues to struggle due to limited resources and inadequate support.

Through "Usawa Mpirani," RUFFO and Fountain Gate seek to break barriers and empower female footballers. The project includes educational workshops, economic empowerment programs, and leadership training, all aimed at enhancing the development of women's football in Tanzania.

The collaboration between RUFFO and Fountain Gate underscores their commitment to promoting gender equality and creating a more inclusive football environment. It is hoped that this partnership will inspire other organizations to support women's football and pave the way for a brighter future for female athletes in Tanzania.

RUFFO Supports Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023, Empowering Girls to Stay in School

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 12:44:35 GMT

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania - On Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023, RUFFO visited Kerezange Secondary School as part of its "HedhiYangu" project, which aims to support girls in staying in school during their menstrual cycles by providing sanitary pads.

Menstrual Hygiene Day, celebrated annually on May 28th, is an important global advocacy platform that promotes good menstrual hygiene management for all women and girls. It aims to break the silence surrounding menstruation and raise awareness about the challenges faced by girls and women during their menstrual cycles.

Recognizing the significance of this day, RUFFO took action to empower girls at Kerezange Secondary School by providing them with sanitary pads. This initiative is part of RUFFO's ongoing commitment to support girls' education and ensure that they can fully participate in school activities, regardless of their menstrual cycle.

Menstruation is a natural and healthy process, yet it continues to be a topic shrouded in stigma and secrecy. Many girls face challenges during their periods, including limited access to sanitary products, inadequate sanitation facilities, and a lack of information about menstrual hygiene. These challenges often lead to absenteeism from school, negatively impacting girls' educational opportunities and overall well-being.New Paragraph

By providing sanitary pads to the girls at Kerezange Secondary School, RUFFO aims to address some of these barriers and create a supportive environment for girls to continue their education uninterrupted. Access to sanitary pads ensures that girls can manage their periods with dignity, comfort, and confidence, enabling them to focus on their studies and fully participate in school activities.

"Menstrual Hygiene Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness about menstrual health and hygiene, and to support girls in overcoming the challenges they face," said a representative from RUFFO. "Through our 'HedhiYangu' project, we aim to empower girls to stay in school and provide them with the necessary resources to manage their periods effectively."

RUFFO believes that education is a fundamental right for all children, including girls, and that no girl should be held back by her menstrual cycle. By supporting girls' menstrual hygiene needs, RUFFO is working towards breaking the barriers that hinder girls' education and promoting gender equality.

The visit to Kerezange Secondary School was met with gratitude and appreciation from the students, teachers, and school administration. The girls expressed their enthusiasm and relief, knowing that they now have access to the necessary sanitary products to navigate their menstrual cycles comfortably.

RUFFO remains committed to advocating for menstrual health and hygiene, not only on Menstrual Hygiene Day but throughout the year. Through partnerships with schools, communities, and stakeholders, RUFFO strives to create a supportive environment where girls can embrace their natural bodily processes without fear or shame.

As we commemorate Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023, RUFFO calls upon all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and the private sector, to prioritize menstrual hygiene management and ensure that all girls have access to the necessary resources and support to manage their periods with dignity and confidence.

Together, we can break the silence, challenge the stigma, and empower girls to reach their full potential, regardless of their menstrual cycle. Let us work towards a future where menstrual hygiene is not a barrier but an enabler for girls' education and overall well-being.New Paragraph

RUFFO, ON DAY OF THE AFRICAN CHILD

henryemma284@gmail.com (Henry Manyasi) — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 12:00:01 GMT

Ruffo, On Day Of The African Child

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania - On June 17, 2023, RUFFO, in collaboration with the Legal and Human Rights Center (LHRC), Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and the Ministry of Community Development, Gender and Children, organized a groundbreaking event in Dar es Salaam to commemorate the Day of the African Child (DAC). The event aimed to provide a platform for children to voice their concerns and challenges, while empowering them to assert their rights and ensuring the full protection of those rights.

The activity utilized the concept of Parliament, creating a unique space where children could express themselves freely. The objective was to enhance children's understanding of their rights and facilitate their active participation in society. By bringing together government officials responsible for children, the event ensured that policies and laws accurately reflected the real needs and priorities of children.

The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of students from six school clubs, including Kerezange Secondary School, Jangwani Secondary School, Azania Secondary School, Bagamoyo Primary School, Bagamoyo Secondary School, and Kibasila Secondary School. Additionally, children living and working on the streets actively contributed to the discussions, making the event a comprehensive representation of diverse perspectives.

A total of 200 children, comprising 110 girls and 90 boys, actively engaged in discussions and activities throughout the day. To support the smooth proceedings, 22 teachers, consisting of an equal distribution of 11 females and 11 males, provided guidance and support to the participants. Moreover, six social welfare officers, including one female representative from Bagamoyo and five representatives (two males and three females) from Dar es Salaam, accompanied the children, ensuring their well-being and providing relevant expertise and support throughout the event.

Hilda Ngaja - Executive Director of Raising Up Friendship Foundation

The event aimed to amplify children's voices and ensure access to justice against child abuse. It also served to commemorate the 75 years of the UN Declaration of Human Rights with children, emphasizing the importance of promoting and protecting their rights.

The Parliament-style setup allowed children to represent specific constituencies addressing issues such as children living and working on the streets, children in conflict with the law, children in hazardous environments, children against violence, and children against child abuse. The Speaker of Parliament, Members of Parliament, and Ministers or the Prime Minister provided explanations and addressed the children's knowledge and concerns.

Mwanaidi Ally Khamis - Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Gender Development, Children and Special Groups

"The objective of the activity was to create an inclusive environment where children felt empowered to express themselves and contribute to the protection of their rights," stated a representative from RUFFO. "By involving government officials and key stakeholders, we aimed to influence policy formulation and decision-making processes to better address the real needs and priorities of children."New Paragraph

The event successfully provided a valuable platform for children to express their concerns and challenges, ensuring their perspectives were heard by government officials. By collaborating with organizations like LHRC, OHCHR, and the Ministry of Community Development, Gender and Children, RUFFO strengthened the event's impact and created a space for meaningful dialogue.

"The presence of Ministers and government officials at the event demonstrated their commitment to listening and responding to the needs of children," explained the RUFFO representative. "Together with our esteemed partners, we are working towards a future where children are heard, valued, and protected."

The Day of the African Child event organized by RUFFO, LHRC, OHCHR, and the Ministry of Community Development, Gender and Children successfully provided a platform for children to express their concerns and challenges. Through meaningful discussions and exchange of ideas, the event empowered children by giving them a voice in society. The collaborative efforts of students, teachers, social welfare officers, government officials, and key organizationsNew Paragraph

Kisarawe Sanitation Pad Distribution

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 17:56:20 GMT

Managing periods in Tanzania is challenging due to a lack of access to menstrual products and sanitation services. Addressing menstrual health and hygiene may enable progress in attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While there is no specific goal or indicator on menstrual hygiene, menstruation is directly linked to a number of SDGS including but not limited to Goal 3; Goal 4; Goal 5; Goal 6; Goal 8; and Goal 12.

At RUFFO we focus on educating girls and boys on menstruation health and hygiene at an early age as it promotes healthy habits and breaks stigmas around the natural process. In addition we undertake the distribution of sanitary towels to Tanzanian girls who cannot afford to purchase them.

We plan to do this with strong coordination mechanisms at the regional, district and community levels as recommended by the National Adolescent Health and Development Strategy 2018-2022.

RUFFO was fortunate enough to meet and have positive talks with the District Commissioner of Kisarawe, Mr Nickson Simon to discuss matters relating to Menstrual Hygiene Management of school girls in Kisarawe District.

Afterwards RUFFO through our “Changia Taulo za Kike” (Donate Sanitary Pads) campaign donated sanitary pads that will be distributed to school girls with the most need in Marumbo Ward, Kisarawe.

Children Fun Run

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 12:13:05 GMT

SITANYAMAZA CHILDREN FUN RUN: A Joyful Day Promoting Child Rights

The SITANYAMAZA CHILDREN FUN RUN by RUFFO held on International Human Rights Day 2021 was a day full of joy, peace, and love for children, parents, and stakeholders. The event, which was held at Fun City in Dar es Salaam, marked the second season of the Sitanyamaza children fun run.

During the fun run, children were encouraged to speak up against abuse, and human rights and child rights education were provided. The event was not only a fun-filled day for children, but also an opportunity to raise awareness about child abuse and the importance of reporting it.

The Sitanyamaza children fun run aligns with Tanzania's National Plan of Action, which aims to prevent and respond to violence against children, and also supports SDG goals, particularly goal 16 which focuses on promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions.

We encourage parents and stakeholders to get involved in promoting child rights and reporting any acts of violence against children. Let's work together to create a safe and peaceful environment for our children.

16 Days of Activism

Sat, 10 Dec 2022 18:14:27 GMT

RUFFO and OHCHR Partner to Tackle GBV During 16 Days of Activism in Tanzania

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a serious issue affecting millions of people worldwide, particularly women and girls. In Tanzania, GBV is a significant problem, with a high number of reported cases each year.

According to a 2017 study by the Tanzania Health and Demographic Survey, more than one in three women have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives. These statistics are alarming, and it is vital to take action to combat this issue.

In response, RUFFO partnered with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to launch an online campaign aimed at raising awareness about GBV in Tanzania during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The campaign took place between November 25th (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) and December 10th (International Human Rights Day).

The 16 Days of Activism aims to mobilize communities and raise awareness about GBV, its causes, and the measures to be taken to prevent it. The campaign aims to empower individuals and communities to take action to end GBV, promote respect, and support gender equality.

The focus of this year's campaign was on the youth, who are particularly vulnerable to GBV, especially online GBV. RUFFO created a series of videos and posters to educate and raise awareness on the issue. The content highlighted various forms of GBV, such as Intimate Partner Violence and Workplace GBV, but also focused on types of online GBV, such as cyberbullying, non-consensual distribution of intimate images, and harassment on social media platforms. The campaign aimed to empower young people to recognize the signs of GBV and speak out against it.

This initiative aligns with Tanzania's National Policy of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children, which recognizes the importance of addressing GBV to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The campaign contributes to SDG 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls , and SDG 16, which seeks to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.

RUFFO and OHCHR's partnership on this campaign was an essential step towards addressing GBV in Tanzania during the 16 Days of Activism and supporting the country's progress towards achieving the SDGs targets. By creating awareness, empowering young people, and advocating for change, we can work towards a world free of GBV.

In conclusion, RUFFO is committed to promoting and protecting human rights, and we are proud to have played our part in raising awareness and empowering young people to speak out against GBV during the 16 Days of Activism. We encourage everyone to join us in our efforts to end GBV and support Tanzania's progress towards achieving the SDGs targets. All content from the campaign is available on RUFFO's Instagram and YouTube channels, where people can continue to learn and engage with the material.

Beach Cleanup and Tree Planting

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 18:24:35 GMT

Tanzania's Independence Day with Beach Cleanup and Tree Planting

To mark Tanzania's 61st Independence Day, RUFFO organized a beach cleanup and tree planting event at Msasani Beach in support of Sustainable Development Goal number 13, which calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

Volunteers and community members participated in the event by collecting litter and planting trees along the coastline, promoting environmental conservation and raising awareness about the importance of community involvement in building a sustainable future. The event also created an opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate and share ideas on promoting environmental sustainability in Tanzania.

RUFFO remains dedicated to promoting sustainable development and addressing environmental challenges in Tanzania. We will continue to work with partners and communities to create a better future for all. Thank you to everyone who participated in the event and contributed to its success.

International Youth Day

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 20:50:11 GMT

RUFFO Commemorates International Youth Day with Dialogue on Youth Issues.

On August 12th, 2022, RUFFO marked International Youth Day by hosting a dialogue with young people at our offices and online via Google Meet. The dialogue focused on various topics, such as the challenges facing young people, mental health issues, responsible internet usage, online harassment, employment opportunities, and awareness about the 2022 census.

During the dialogue, participants emphasized the importance of setting goals, using the internet responsibly, avoiding shortcuts to success, having confidence and returning to proper morals, giving young people a voice in decision-making, and raising awareness about the significance of the census.

These dialogues are critical because they allow young people to express their views, exchange ideas, and learn from one another. At the same time, older generations must listen to them because young people are the future and need to be included in decision-making.

RUFFO encourages youth to get in touch with us if they want to share their thoughts, opinions, or concerns about any issue affecting them. We are committed to supporting young people and ensuring their voices are heard.

African Child Day

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 19:40:11 GMT

RUFFO Commemorates Day of the African Child 2022 with a Call for Child Protection

Raising Up Friendship Foundation (RUFFO) partnered with the United Nations Human Rights Council, Kisarawe District Council, and several other organizations to commemorate the Day of the African Child 2022. The event brought together primary and secondary schools from Kisarawe, where children participated in activities aimed at raising awareness of child protection issues.

The highlight of the event was a walk to symbolize the collective effort in protecting children's rights and preventing child abuse in Tanzania. RUFFO distributed sanitary towels to girls in attendance, ensuring they can continue their education without worry or shame.

The Guest of Honour, Kisarawe District Commissioner Nickson Simon John, emphasized the importance of child protection and the role of the community in safeguarding children's welfare. He called upon parents, guardians, and community members to be vigilant in protecting children from abuse, exploitation, and other forms of harm.

The event was a success, with children and adults learning about child protection and their roles in safeguarding children's welfare.

RUFFO remains committed to promoting child protection in Tanzania through its initiatives, including raising awareness, providing education and resources, and advocating for policies that protect children's rights in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

The event was a success, with children and adults alike learning about child protection and their roles in safeguarding children's welfare.

RUFFO remains committed to promoting child protection in Tanzania through its various initiatives, including raising awareness, providing education and resources, and advocating for policies that protect children's rights.

Menstrual Hygiene Day

Sat, 28 May 2022 18:46:51 GMT

RUFFO and Partners Visit Mfuro Secondary School to Promote Menstrual Hygiene Day 2022

RUFFO, in partnership with Jubilee Insurance, Tanzania Youth Alliance, and other stakeholders, visited Mfuro Secondary School in Kisarawe to celebrate Menstrual Hygiene Day 2022. The event was aimed at promoting menstrual health and hygiene among adolescent girls and women in Tanzania. During the workshop, students were educated on the importance of maintaining proper menstrual hygiene practices to avoid infections and other menstrual-related complications. Additionally, sanitary pads were donated to the students to help them manage their menstruation effectively.

Menstrual Hygiene Day is observed annually on the 28th of May to raise awareness about the challenges faced by girls and women during menstruation. Menstruation is a natural biological process that occurs in every woman's life, but unfortunately, it is still a taboo subject in many societies. In Tanzania, cultural taboos surrounding menstruation are prevalent, and as a result, many girls miss school during their menstrual cycle.

Statistics show that approximately 30% of girls in Tanzania miss school during their menstrual cycle. This is due to a lack of access to affordable and quality menstrual hygiene products, inadequate sanitation facilities, and cultural taboos surrounding menstruation. This situation has a significant impact on the academic performance and wellbeing of these girls, leading to increased dropout rates and limited opportunities for their future.

To break these cultural taboos and promote menstrual health and hygiene, RUFFO has launched the Hedhi Yangu campaign. This campaign seeks to educate girls and women on the importance of maintaining proper menstrual hygiene practices, provide them with access to affordable and quality menstrual hygiene products, and promote advocacy efforts to create an enabling environment for menstrual health and hygiene.

The Hedhi Yangu campaign is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 5 on Gender Equality, which aims to empower women and girls and promote their rights. Additionally, it aligns with Tanzania's National Policy of Action for the Survival, Protection, and Development of Children in Tanzania, which seeks to address the needs and rights of children, including menstrual health and hygiene.

RUFFO is calling on individuals and organizations to support the Hedhi Yangu campaign by making donations to help provide menstrual hygiene products to girls and women in need. By supporting this campaign, you will be contributing to the empowerment of girls and women and promoting their health, wellbeing, and education.

In conclusion, RUFFO's partnership with Jubilee Insurance, Tanzania Youth Alliance, and other stakeholders to celebrate Menstrual Hygiene Day 2022 at Mfuro Secondary School in Kisarawe is a significant step towards promoting menstrual health and hygiene among adolescent girls and women in Tanzania. Let us all join hands in breaking cultural taboos and promoting menstrual health and hygiene for all. Donate today to support the Hedhi Yangu campaign and make a difference in the lives of girls and women in Tanzania.

Miss Universe Tanzania

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 20:50:05 GMT

RUFFO and Miss Universe Tanzania Visit Kerezange Secondary School to Address Menstrual Health Management

RUFFO, in partnership with Hedhi Yangu Ambassador Shubilla Stanton, visited Kerezange Secondary School in Kivule, Dar es Salaam to address menstrual health management (MHM) and donate sanitary pads.

During the workshop, Shubilla spoke to the schoolgirls and encouraged them to prioritize their menstrual health and hygiene.

The donation of pads was in response to the period poverty faced by many girls in the school. According to RUFFO's research, about 60 girls in Kerezange Secondary School have missed classes because they did not have access to sanitary pads.

RUFFO encourages everyone to join the fight against period poverty by donating sanitary pads or providing a place for donation boxes. It is crucial to prioritize MHM to help girls stay in school and reach their full potential.

RUFFO remains committed to educating communities and providing resources to improve menstrual health management in Tanzania.

Financial Literacy

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 17:48:56 GMT

RUFFO and UTT AMIS Partner to Provide Financial Education to Children.

Teaching children about financial literacy is of utmost importance. Children should be able to understand the value of money and learn how to create their own budget and manage their finances properly from a young age.

This not only enables children to become more financially responsible, but also encourages them to develop an interest in investment from a young age.

RUFFO and UTT AMIS partnered together to provide financial literacy education to children in a workshop held at the Regency Park Hotel in Dar es Salaam. The workshop was a huge success, with children from various backgrounds attending and actively participating in the discussions and activities.

The workshop focused on practical financial management skills, such as budgeting, saving, and investing. Children were taught about the different types of investments, including stocks, bonds, and real estate, as well as the risks and benefits associated with each one.

RUFFO's life skills program, which is designed to equip children with the necessary skills to succeed in life, was also incorporated into the workshop. The children were taught various life skills, such as effective communication, decision making, and problem solving, which are essential for their personal and professional development.

The financial literacy workshop was just one of the many initiatives that RUFFO has undertaken to support children's development. We believe that empowering children with these skills not only benefits them, but also contributes to the development of our nation.

We encourage parents who are interested in enrolling their children in the next life skills workshop to contact RUFFO. Our workshops are open to all children and are designed to equip them with the skills necessary for success in life.