Empowering Lives and Building Communities in Chamwino, Dodoma
Dodoma, the capital city of Tanzania, is a diverse hub with residents from various backgrounds. In the year 2001, Habitat for Humanity Tanzania initiated a housing project in Chidachi village in Chamwino, Dodoma. This project aimed to assist Chamwino’s residents in constructing and residing in decent homes.
The project achieved considerable success and received a warm welcome from the community. The late President Mkapa, in a momentous event, inaugurated the handover of these houses to the residents.
People like Stephen Noah Mazuguni and Janeth Jonas Ulanga have personally witnessed the incredible transformations brought about by Habitat for Humanity Tanzania’s efforts in Chamwino, Dodoma.
Stephen Noah Mazuguni: Building Hope
Stephen Noah Mazuguni, a retired teacher in Chamwino, Dodoma, witnessed the profound and enduring effects of Habitat for Humanity’s work. When the Habitat project commenced in Chamwino in 2001, he served as the Chairperson.
He explained, “Habitat for Humanity initiated its project in Chamwino to assist those facing challenges in building their homes. They began with ten houses, and the local community actively participated in the construction process. They contributed sand, stones, labor, and a steadfast commitment.”
What set this project apart was its financial model. Participants in the project paid a nominal fee and worked physically to construct their homes. It was a collective effort that underscored the community’s dedication. The project also encouraged individuals to engage in group discussions and attend training sessions.
This fostered learning and strengthened the community’s bonds. It wasn’t solely about housing; it was about nurturing a better community. “The project didn’t just change the housing landscape; it fostered community growth. It led to more houses in the area and enhanced the neighbourhood’s infrastructure, serving as a catalyst for development.”
In his role as Chairperson of the Habitat project, Stephen played a pivotal role in ensuring the project’s success. He facilitated communication between the community and Habitat for Humanity, ensuring that things ran smoothly. A standout moment in the project’s history was the visit of the late President Benjamin Mkapa, who inaugurated the newly constructed houses, underscoring the project’s high-level support.
In the present day, the homes constructed through the Habitat project have seamlessly integrated into the heart of the community. The initial housing construction, which commenced in the small village of Chidachi, served as a catalyst, inspiring numerous residents to embark on their own home-building endeavours. Consequently, Chidachi has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a small village into a thriving town.
Residents take pride in their homes and express gratitude for the positive changes brought by Habitat for Humanity. “The project wasn’t just about constructing houses; it created a sense of unity, improved living conditions, and left a lasting imprint on the community’s growth.” Stephen said.
Janeth Jonas Ulanga – A Story of Strength and Empowerment
Janeth Jonas Ulanga hails from Chidachi village in Chamwino, Dodoma, and her journey is nothing short of inspiring. A mother of five children, her association with Habitat for Humanity began in 2001 when her family purchased land in Chamwino, igniting their dreams of a future home.
In 2001, Habitat for Humanity initiated their work in Chamwino, a pivotal point for Janeth and her community. They worked with communities to transform those parcels of land into tangible homes, though it was far from an effortless endeavour. Janeth vividly recalls the challenges they faced, having to source building materials from distant locations in Dodoma due to the absence of construction materials in the nearby villages. “Every brick and bit of cement was precious,” she remarks.
One remarkable moment in this project was the visit of the late President Benjamin Mkapa, who came to inaugurate the newly constructed houses – a momentous occasion. Janeth fondly remembers the excitement and pride of welcoming the President to their Habitat homes.
Once the homes were completed, a local committee took charge of maintaining the housing project. The day they received the keys to their homes marked a grand celebration in Chidachi village, where similar houses were constructed for other residents.
These houses brought about significant improvements in people’s lives. “It was more than just having a place to reside; it was about securing a better life,” Janeth emphasizes. Janeth and her family worked diligently to repay their house construction loan to Habitat for Humanity.
However, the impact extended far beyond housing. Janeth delved into politics, becoming a local councillor, and even started her own grocery store, which served as a fresh start, providing her with income and the support of her growing neighbourhood.
Janeth’s story vividly illustrates how Habitat for Humanity transformed her life. It didn’t merely provide her with a house; it empowered her to take control of her life, venture into politics, and become an entrepreneur.
The Ongoing Impact
Habitat for Humanity has been working in various regions of Tanzania, employing affordable housing methods to assist residents in constructing decent homes since the 1980s. Through providing homes and empowering communities, Habitat has not only enhanced living conditions but also created new opportunities. “It’s not just about constructing houses; it’s about establishing homes, fostering community growth, and transforming lives,” emphasizes Fortunata Temu, Country Representative of Habitat for Humanity Tanzania.
The impact of Habitat for Humanity’s efforts in Chamwino, Dodoma, has been profound, and its influence continues to shape the lives of individuals like Stephen and Janeth.