The KIOTA-supported KIWOHEDE centre in Bunju (officially opened in March 2007) is the first ever centre for victims of trafficking in Tanzania.
In 2006, KIWOHEDE carried out research into the problem. They found that:
60% of the trafficked girls and young women are under the age of 18.
Many that have been trafficked become street children, turning to prostitution to survive.
The majority of children rescued by KIWOHEDE show signs of ill health, including malnutrition, general body weakness, signs of mistreatment, starvation, anaemia and malaria. (As a result, KIWOHEDE provides medical services in collaboration with hospitals and dispensaries.)
None of the children trafficked have been coerced, nor kidnapped. They have simply been lured by traffickers with full promises of a better life, opportunities for education, a good job and “other such nice things supposedly found in towns and cities”. Over ¾ of the victims were recruited and left home with the blessing and consent of their parents, guardians and/or relatives.
Family economic empowerment is essential in the fight against trafficking of children.
In 2006, KIWOHEDE facilitated the reunification of 57 child victims of trafficking with their families. Some have now found jobs in Dar es Salaam, and others have started up their own businesses having received vocational training and grant support from KIWOHEDE. Ten families of younger victims of trafficking have received grant support for establishing small businesses, enabling them to provide for their children.
In cooperation with other agencies, KIWOHEDE is working to raise public awareness of trafficking and is lobbying the government authorities to enforce anti-trafficking laws in Tanzania.
In 2006, KIWOHEDE worked with 900 girl child victims of sexual abuse and violence, and referred 123 boy child victims to other agencies in Mbeya, Iringa and Songea regions.
KIWOHEDE is one of the only organisations in Tanzania that welcomes girls that have become pregnant as a result of sexual abuse.
The KIWOHEDE Manzese Crisis Management Centre rescued, sheltered and rehabilitated 52 child domestic workers in 2006, most were undernourished and in poor health, and some were suffering from burns or injuries as a result of severe beatings. Individual and group support is provided on a daily basis.
1300 girls and boys, rescued from commercial sexual exploitation, took part in a wide range of vocational training courses including tailoring, embroidery, carpentry and motor vehicle/ bicycle mechanics. The range of activities was provided in collaboration with other agencies to ensure that opportunities for trainees after graduation are available.