President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the first female head of state of Tanzania, has generously contributed 150 million Tanzanian shillings towards the establishment of a centre dedicated to children with special needs in Bagamoyo District, part of the Coast Region.
The Bagamoyo Diaconic Lutheran Centre, an initiative of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (KKKT), Eastern and Coastal Diocese, aims to provide comprehensive care, education, and developmental support for children living with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder and other intellectual disabilities.
During a fundraising event held by the church, President Samia commended the project, emphasizing that true religious service goes beyond words and manifests through meaningful acts that uplift vulnerable members of society. She challenged religious leaders and communities to demonstrate genuine compassion through actions that improve the lives of those in need.
Also Read; Duterte Faces ICC Arrest Warrant Threat
The event featured inspiring performances by children from the nearby Mtoni Deacon Lutheran Centre, showcasing the talents and resilience of children with special needs, and highlighting the importance of inclusive opportunities.
This initiative aligns with Tanzania’s national efforts on inclusive education and social welfare policies, which aim to ensure equitable access to education and care for all children, regardless of their abilities.
President Samia’s donation reflects the close collaboration between the Tanzanian government and faith-based organizations to tackle social challenges. The Bagamoyo Diaconic Lutheran Centre is expected to become a benchmark for similar partnerships, promoting the welfare and empowerment of children with disabilities across the country.