Tanzania, East Africa – “From my pain, I found my purpose; from my hurt, I discovered hope. Today, that hope stands tall in the hearts of Tanzania’s daughters and sons.” These were the moving words of Harold D’Souza during his recent humanitarian mission to Tanzania, East Africa, where his journey through Eyes Open International (EOI) has sparked a new movement to empower the vulnerable through education, dignity, and love.
In a landmark visit, Harold D’Souza, survivor, activist, and Co-Founder of Eyes Open International, launched the organization’s impactful mission in Tanzania, reaching some of the most underserved communities in Majevu Village, Same District. The heart of this mission lies in equipping young girls and boys with educational resources, empowering women with dignity, and building bridges of hope that transcend continents.
In the rugged mountains of Majevu, Harold encountered 145 resilient women working tirelessly—breaking stones and selling bananas—to provide food for their children. Touched by their spirit and struggle, he not only listened to their stories but committed himself to transforming them.
Fr. George Crasta from Kifaru, Tanzania, expressed his heartfelt gratitude:
“Thank you so much Harold D’Souza for visiting our mission. I deeply appreciate your simplicity, your genuine friendship, your love for the poor, and above all, your inspiring dedication to your mission. Harold sharing his journey from hurt to happiness and his tireless work, as a priest truly touched our hearts. While many of us may do little and make much noise, D’Souza does so much in silence, seeking no recognition—a true reflection of God’s grace working through him.”
“Indeed, God’s hand is upon Harold. He has chosen Harold for His greater glory, and we are blessed to witness his example. Please know that I am praying for you and your family, and I will always support you in whatever you do as a true and faithful friend.”— Fr. George Crasta, Kifaru, Tanzania
Sr. Leena Mathias, Regional Superior of the African Region, Assisi Convent of the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation, echoed similar sentiments:
“I have no words, dear Harold, for your outreaching love for the needy, especially our girls in the Assisi Center who come from families with nothing. Seeing their condition, we decided to bring them to our Center and help them. We prayed for a miracle, and God sent you as our angel. Hats off to you for your good will, your generous heart, and the support of your wife Dancy, and sons Bradly and Rohan D’Souza. We will continue to support you through our daily prayers.”
During his visit to St. James Church, Harold noticed a practical need: the congregation, packed with faithful parishioners, endured intense heat during services due to a lack of ceiling fans. Deeply moved, Harold D’Souza donated fans the very next day. On Easter Sunday, with fans fully operational, Harold was invited by Fr. James Singo to share his wisdom with the congregation, his message translated into Swahili—a profoundly emotional and unifying moment.
Harold’s journey was not limited to symbolic gestures; it was marked by tangible impact. Eyes Open International donated a new laptop to 35 girls at the Assisi Hostel, along with clothes, backpacks, chocolates, shoes, and essential hygiene products. Before flying back to the U.S., Harold donated his personal belongings—clothes, shoes, money and travel bags—as his heart overflowed with gratitude for the blessed life he leads in America.
He addressed numerous institutions including St. Joseph Boys High School, Assisi Hostel Girls, and held powerful dialogues with over 100 women in Majevu Village. Through it all, Harold was inspired by the humble and heroic work of Sr. Maria Anitha, Fr. Alwyn D’Souza Director Organic Center for Excellence, Fr. Sebastian Chirayath, Don Bosco, Arusha, Sr. Alice, Sr. Mercy, and many other Sisters and Fathers serving with selfless devotion.
Scott Faucheux, a long-time friend from Cincinnati, Ohio, shared:
“Regardless of your perspective in regards to faith, feeding destitute children is a noble cause. My friend Harold is one of those rare individuals who sees suffering and acts. The level of poverty that exists among these people is something that any of us cannot even begin to fathom. I applaud Harold for his great love and humanitarian efforts. Harold is asking for a simple contribution of $1 per month—just $12 a year for some of the world’s most needy—to change lives. Harold is an example for all of us in that he lives out the questions: ‘If not me, then who? If not now, then when?’”
As Eyes Open International deepens its roots in Africa, the spirit of compassion continues to bear fruit. From June 1st, 2025, Harold D’Souza will inaugurate the Assisi Free Bread House in Majevu Village. Every morning from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, 100 individuals will receive fresh bread outside the District Hospital, 365 days a year—a promise of nourishment, dignity, and hope.
In Harold’s own words:
“I have no silver or gold to give, but I have love, compassion, and a heart that beats for those in pain. The Assisi Free Bread House is not just about feeding the hungry—it’s about telling each soul, ‘You matter. You are seen. You are loved.’ This is just the beginning.”
Harold D’Souza’s visit to Tanzania was not a moment—it was a movement. A call to humanity. A call to each of us. And it all began with one man’s heart, stretched wide across the ocean, reaching the mountains of Majevu.
For donations or to join Eyes Open International’s mission, visit: www.eyesopeninternational.org
