Ahmed's Story

Ahmed, 64, has lived in Nyarugusu refugee camp in north-west Tanzania for the past 10 years. Originally from Nairobi, Kenya, he is an active member of the camp community and a familiar face to many.

Life has not always been easy. In 2021, Ahmed became seriously ill with tuberculosis and spent six months receiving treatment at the Red Cross Hospital in Nyarugusu. Alongside health challenges, he has often struggled to make ends meet.

Supported by HelpAge Tanzania, Age International partner in the country, Ahmed has received practical support and has become involved in activities that have helped improve his wellbeing, such as football.

Improving health and wellbeing

Ahmed takes part in the regular physical exercise sessions organised by HelpAge Tanzania and says they have made a real difference to his health.

"Since I started HelpAge exercises on Thursday mornings, I have been doing very well health-wise. Especially, I have been having a much better appetite, and I have been having a better work ethic."

He has also received practical items including buckets, blankets and soap, as well as a cash grant to help meet everyday needs.

"I very much appreciate that I have been receiving buckets, I have been receiving blankets, and I have been receiving soaps. I am also lucky to be a recipient of a cash grant."

Ahmed plays an important role within the camp. He is the custodian of Mosque Taqwa in Zone 14 and has coached the Persons with Specific Needs football team for the past six years.

For Ahmed, football is about much more than sport. It brings people together and creates opportunities for friendship, enjoyment and connection.

"Playing football creates a fun environment. It is very joyous and very entertaining. Everybody loves when we play football at this age."

He also encourages others to join the activities and exercises available because of supporters like you.

"Come, join us. Let us be a big team, a big family, a big joyous community."

Supporting the next generation

Alongside his community roles, Ahmed gives tuition lessons from his shelter. Using the cash grant he’s received, he was able to buy a blackboard, chairs and tables to create a learning space for his students.

"For the last 10 years, I think I have taught about 200 students, and most of them have succeeded."

Teaching gives Ahmed a way to support others while sharing the skills and knowledge he has built throughout his life.

Patience is a lesson he believes everyone can learn from.

"Life is a struggle, and definitely at the end of the day, everybody has to succeed to achieve his or her own goals."

Thanks to the support of the Grandparents United community, Ahmed continues to play an active role in camp life, helping to build a stronger and more connected community for those around him.