what does the future hold for a Tanzanian orphan?
Orphaned or not, Tanzanians are a very resilient people with a sense of community that we in Australia could only dream of. An orphaned child is usually taken in by an extended or neighbouring family. This is an emotional and financial burden they all readily accept. Though given the basics, the provision of education and adequate health care are often unrealistic expectations. Those not so lucky are found simply existing on the streets. Often, orphans as young as 13 will labour all day to sustain their younger siblings, taking on the role of a parent at a very young age. Any dreams of education are left behind and the future is purely about survival. If an orphan can access education as well as the basics, they consider themselves to be blessed. “Education is the key to life” is a line we all heard kids say while we were in Africa. A child leaving Form 4 (which, in Australia, is the equivalent of the last year of high school) will receive a certificate, which deems them as employable.
