Jovini’s story on finding solace in Amani

Jovini (centre) together with his mother (left) and Uncle (right).

Jovini grew up in Kagera with his parents and twelve siblings, living a nomadic life and working odd jobs to survive. Because of this, neither Jovini nor his siblings had ever been to school. At 8, he had joined his parents in farm work, and by 12, after his father abandoned the family, he became the main provider for his mother and siblings.

Desperate for a better life, Jovini followed a friend to Kahama (about 450km/280 miles away from home), where he lived on the streets for five months. Strangers then lured him onto a bus to Dar es Salaam with false job promises. Too weak and hungry to continue, he escaped in Singida, where a kind policeman called an Amani outreach worker to help him.

At Amani’s centre, he received medical care, food, and support. His social worker traced his mother, who was happy to see him but was not able care for him. His social worker then traced his uncle who welcomed Jovini into his home, with his siblings and their mother.

Now back with his family, Jovini has joined the MEMKWA program to learn reading, writing, and math before starting vocational training. Amani continues to check on him, ensuring he is safe and thriving!