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| Founder of Mama Ongea na Mwanao Foundation, Steve Nyerere, on his remarks at the special fundraising event to raise essential equipments for people with disabilities and special needs held at karimjee grounds in Dar es salaam. |
By
Charles Mkoka
Celebrated Tanzanian
artist Steve Nyerere has spearheaded a special fundraiser to provide essential
equipment for people with disabilities and other special needs groups as part
of his impactful “Asante Mama, Tumekufikia” campaign.
The campaign culminated
in a well-attended conference that brought together people with disabilities
nationwide, providing them with wheelchairs, bicycles, and other necessary
tools.
This initiative,
aligned with the Ministry of Youth, is aimed at empowering people with
disabilities and amplifying their voices and contributions to the nation’s
development.
“Tonight, I will sleep
peacefully because the joy I feel, and the joy that President Samia feels, is
immense,” Steve said, beaming with happiness.
The campaign has
received significant support from the Mama Ongea na Mwanao organization, which
is committed to uplifting the lives of people with disabilities and integrating
them into the country’s socio-economic progress.
Steve emphasized that
the gifts are not about favoritism but about enabling everyone to thrive. He
expressed his wish that in the future, a person with a disability might even
win a car, provided they show diligence and exemplary conduct.
He extended heartfelt
gratitude to the numerous institutions, including government bodies, private
companies, and NGOs, that contributed to the success of the campaign.
David Barondo, the Director of Magic Builders, expressed pride in supporting
the initiative, saying:
“As Magic Builders, we stand with the President’s vision. We’ve donated 25
wheelchairs and are committed to improving infrastructure for all Tanzanians.
We will also support the education of people with disabilities from start to
finish.”
Honorable Mariam Ditopile, the MP for Kondoa Town and a member of the
Parliamentary Committee praised the campaign, calling it a national
responsibility to support special needs groups.
“We need similar
assistance in Kondoa Town. I’m proud to participate in this campaign, and I am
pledging TZS 1 million in cash right now,” she announced enthusiastically.
The Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, represented by the Film Board, affirmed its commitment to recognizing the talents of people with disabilities.
“This initiative will
help unleash their potential because disability is not a limitation. We will
identify their skills and provide them with the resources needed to contribute
to the nation’s economy,” a ministry representative remarked.
The Chairperson of the
Film Board also reiterated the importance of leaving no group behind, in line
with President Samia’s vision.
“Whether in music or
any other art form, disability is not inability. However, we must discourage
those pretending to be disabled for roles when real disabled talents are out
there,” noted the CCM Dar es Salaam Regional Publicity Secretary, Ally Bananga.
Bananga commended
President Samia for selecting the right organizations to reach people with special
needs.
The “Asante Mama,
Tumekufikia” campaign is a shining example of how collective effort can create
meaningful change, providing hope and a sense of belonging to those who need it
most.