TunaHAKI Foundation
The TunaHAKI Foundation is supporting the work of the Tanzanian based TunaHAKI Centre.
The TunaHAKI Centre was founded by David Ryatula, an artist living in Moshi. Trained at Bagamoyo National College of Art, David recognised the importance that the arts play in preserving cultural heritage and promoting community development.
Whilst working as the Assistant Cultural Officer in Moshi, Mr Ryatula saw the need to address the increasing population of street-children in the Kilimanjaro region. He also hoped to promote the arts by introducing a cultural group in Moshi. With the support of friends and colleagues, Mr Ryatula established a group for street-children living at Njoro River, near Moshi bus station. Using the performing arts as a tool for informal education, the foundations of a youth arts and cultural group were established in June 1998.
With newfound self-esteem, the children began to greet each other with one word - "Tunahaki", which means "we have the right". However, as the group developed, so the children's needs became increasingly apparent. Without a safe place to sleep, proper food or clean water, the children were at serious risk.
On 28th September 1998, David Ryatula founded the TunaHAKI Centre for Child Development. There were ten children, all of whom were boys. During these initial stages, the centre provided night refuge, breakfast and informal education. The staff and volunteers used arts education to boost the childrens' confidence and raise their feelings of self-worth.
The TunaHAKI Centre was registered lawfully in April 2001. It is now recognised as a registered charity and non-government organisation in Tanzania. It has no religious, political or racial affiliations, and aims to improve the welfare of vulnerable children, whatever their background. |
