Growing Hope: How Upendo Children Club Transformed Vulnerable Youth in Tungi Ward

Some years ago, in Tungi Ward, an area where many vulnerable children lived with little protection and support, the Upendo Children Club was created to help these children build better lives. Many of the youth, identified as orphans and most vulnerable children (OVC), faced tough challenges in their daily lives. Recognizing this, HACOCA stepped in to support them by not only providing life skills but also giving them hope for the future.

Upendo Children Club became a safe space where 20 children—8 boys and 12 girls—aged between 8 and 15 years, could gather to learn and grow. The club’s aim was to teach them important horticultural skills, while also helping them with their psychosocial needs. These children, from various streets in Tungi Ward, gained knowledge on how to grow vegetables and take care of their gardens. They learned valuable lessons on land preparation, planting, weeding, fertigation, and harvesting, all under the guidance of a dedicated volunteer, Mr. Philipo Kabedi.

HACOCA’s goal was not only to teach farming but also to address the children’s emotional well-being. The club offered them a space to talk about their struggles and find support. They also learned life skills that helped them manage their difficult situations. As they applied these skills at home, many of the children began growing vegetables like amaranths, Chinese cabbage, and eggplants, using sack and home gardens. These gardens provided their families with fresh, nutritious food and extra income from selling the surplus.

Elizabeth Ulazi, one of the children in the club, shared her experience: “Upendo Club helped me learn how to water vegetables and grow different greens. I now have my own garden at home with five raised beds, where I’ve planted amaranths, Chinese cabbage, and eggplants for my family. I’m very proud to have been part of this group. Much thanks to TAPP and HACOCA.”

Another member, Haullati Rashid, shared how the club helped her family: “My house is now surrounded by kitchen gardens. I learned how to use the skills, and now we have no trouble finding vegetables for our meals—we eat balanced meals. Thanks to TAPP.”

Rose William, another young member, spoke about her newfound dreams: “I never thought I’d one day dream of becoming an agronomist or a businesswoman who sells vegetables. But with the skills I’ve gained and the technologies I’ve started using, I know this is just the beginning. My thanks to TAPP, HACOCA, and my volunteer.”

The Upendo Children Club made a lasting difference in these children’s lives. Through their participation, they learned to grow vegetables using raised beds and sacks, and their hard work brought in steady harvests. This meant that their families not only had healthy meals but could also earn money by selling the extra produce at local markets.

While the club’s activities took place years ago, its impact is still felt. The children who participated in Upendo Club are no longer defined by the challenges they faced but by the skills and confidence they gained. Thanks to the support of HACOCA and the TAPP project, these children have gone on to build brighter futures for themselves and their families.