As Zito, a bright and curious young boy gradually lost the ability to walk, his world became isolating and challenging. Simple things most of us take for granted—playing outside with friends, going to school with ease, or even joining his family at community gatherings—turned into daily challenges. Without the right support, at times – his future felt limited.

He had been living with his grandparents since he was very young. His mother had run away after birth, so Zito’s grandparents took care of him. When he was little, Zito walked and did well in his studies, but began to fall and lost the ability to walk. He had to crawl when in grade three and he stopped attending school for one year – as his grandparents were unable to help him recover or to take him back to school.

As we learned about Zito’s situation, Project Zawadi decided to help. Mobility was the next step toward restoring his independence and dignity! This is exactly the kind of situation that inspired us to create our new Rapid Response Initiative—stepping in quickly when urgent needs threaten to derail a child’s education or future. We’ll be sharing more with you about this initiative very soon, but Zito’s story is one of the first and clearest examples of it in action.

PZ took Zito to Bugando Hospital to help him recover and occasionally checked in on his progress. He received medical attention and was able to graduate school in 2024.

Later, Project Zawadi stepped in to provide Zito with a new wheelchair because the one he had was in disrepair and largely insufficient.

For the first time in a while, he is able to attend more events, accomplish goals and do personal tasks with greater ease. His smile says it all—this was more than just a wheelchair. It was an increase in freedom, hope, and a brighter future. We continue to check on his health and are waiting for a referral to attend Muhimbili Hospital for further checkups.

Members of his community wonder what happened to Zito!  From having to crawl, to  attending more activities and graduating – it’s been transformative! He is doing well, feeling better and is very thankful for his chair. The last time PZ met with his grandparents, they asked to have help with computer training for Zito. Zito would like to become a computer engineer one day.

A big thanks to the generosity of our supporters for helping to provide Zito with a wheelchair designed to fit his needs. Stories like Zito’s remind us why community matters. Every donation, big or small, helps break down barriers for children who deserve the chance to learn, play, and thrive.

🌍 Together, we can keep making mobility—and possibility—a reality. If you’d like to be part of more stories like Zito’s, consider supporting Project Zawadi today. Your kindness truly changes lives!