Mangaluru/Tanzania: U.S.-based nonprofit Eyes Open International (EOI) has launched a Free Midday Meal Programme at Majevu Primary School in Tanzania’s Same District, Kilimanjaro Region, providing nutritious daily meals to 200 schoolchildren from July 2026 to May 2027.

The initiative, supported by donors from the United States and other countries, aims to improve children’s nutrition, education, and overall well-being while reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to humanitarian service and human dignity.

Donation supports children’s nutrition

Eyes Open International presented US$6,000 to Sr. Leena Matthias, Regional Superior of the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation, African Region, who, together with the Assisi Convent Sisters, will oversee the implementation of the programme.

The initiative seeks to ensure that children receive nutritious meals during the school year, helping improve school attendance, concentration, and overall health.

Humanitarian mission reaches communities across Tanzania

As part of the mission, Harold D’Souza, President and Co-Founder of Eyes Open International, spent several weeks in Tanzania, addressing more than two dozen church, educational, community, and humanitarian gatherings.

During his visit, Harold met Sr. Leena Matthias and officials at the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam on July 8, highlighting the importance of international partnerships in strengthening humanitarian initiatives.

One of the most touching moments of the mission came in Stelling, Same, where Harold fulfilled a promise made to Fedilisi, a man living with a physical disability for 55 years.

With support from donor Bob Goodwin of Cincinnati, Ohio, Fedilisi received a new wheelchair on July 11, months ahead of Christmas, restoring his mobility and independence.

Community celebrates initiative

Earlier in the visit, women from Majevu Village organised a community welcome programme attended by more than 200 women and over 100 children.

As a gesture of appreciation, Harold D’Souza presented 3,000 Tanzanian Shillings to each woman whose children would benefit from the meal programme. Chocolates were also distributed to children and community members.

The humanitarian mission received appreciation from local clergy and religious leaders.

Fr. Valentine Luvara praised the initiative, saying it had brought hope and joy to the parish community while strengthening the spiritual bond between Tanzania and supporters in the United States.

Similarly, Sr. Venitha Martis commended the organisation’s commitment to serving poor and marginalised communities through compassion and generosity.

Bishop honours humanitarian efforts

A highlight of the visit came on July 4, when Bishop Rogatus Kimaryo of the Diocese of Same honoured Harold D’Souza during a special programme at Kifaru Catholic Parish in Tanzania’s Mwanga District.

The recognition acknowledged his continued humanitarian work and support for vulnerable communities across the Kilimanjaro Region.

During the mission, Harold also acknowledged the dedicated service of Sr. Leena Matthias, Sr. Maria Anitha Florine, Sr. Alice Pinto, Sr. Nirmala, and the Assisi Convent Sisters for their commitment to caring for the local community.

Fr. James Felix Singo, Parish Priest of Saint James Church, also appreciated the initiative, thanking Eyes Open International and its supporters for bringing hope to the people of Same.

Continuing commitment to humanitarian service

The latest programme builds upon Eyes Open International’s previous humanitarian initiatives in Tanzania. During a visit in 2025, the organisation donated church fans to improve worship facilities, reflecting its long-term commitment to community development.

Speaking about the mission, Harold D’Souza said sustainable change is possible when communities, faith leaders, volunteers, and donors work together to protect human dignity and create opportunities for children.

He reiterated the organisation’s guiding principle, “T.E.A.M. – Together Everyone Achieves More,” emphasising that collective effort remains the key to building a future where every child has access to food, education, dignity, and hope.