Who We Are
Inspired by the motto “God is Love”, the Brothers of Charity were founded in 1807 by Peter Joseph Triest to serve marginalized communities. The Brothers of Charity began their apostolate in Tanzania in 1994, helping deaf children and youth in Tabora with a group of Indonesian brothers. Two years later, following the Rwandan genocide and the war that shook eastern Zaire, now the Democratic Republic of Congo, several professed brothers and young brothers in formation of various nationalities, Belgian, Congolese, Burundian, and Rwandan arrived in Kigoma, led by Brother Stan. This was the beginning of the Emmanuel Community, which in 2000 would become the Saint-Dominic region in memory of Brother Dominique Munyurangabo, murdered during the Rwandan genocide in April 1994. The Saint Dominic Region is made up of Brothers of different nationalities: Congolese, Zambians, Tanzanians, Malawians and Ugandans, and it is this diversity that makes the unity, strength and beauty of the region.
The Brothers address systemic challenges faced by marginalized groups—especially those with disabilities, mental health conditions, or extreme poverty—through:
Healthcare & Rehabilitation
Inclusive Education
Vocational Training
Social Inclusion & Advocacy
To uplift vulnerable individuals and families by addressing their most pressing needs—quality education, affordable healthcare, and livelihood support—while fostering long-term self-reliance.
A thriving, equitable society where every person in Kigoma has the tools and opportunities to build a brighter future.
Bangwe Sheltered Home (Kigoma)
Provides residential care for children with intellectual disabilities (e.g., autism, cerebral palsy).
Services: Medication, physiotherapy, assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs), and inclusive education support.
Impact: Improved mobility, reduced stigma, and empowered caregivers.
Mental Wellness Centers
Offer psychiatric care and counseling for individuals with mental health conditions.
Focus on epilepsy, schizophrenia, and trauma recovery.
Kigoma Training College
Trains teachers and caregivers in special needs education and inclusive practices.
Bridges gaps in local expertise for disability support.
Rumonge Deaf Cooperative (Founded 2010)
Empowers deaf youth through carpentry, tailoring, and soap-making.
Weekly sign language classes promote communication.
Challenges: Stigma, limited market trust, and funding for expansion.
Maendeleo Youth Centre (Est. 1997)
Rehabilitates street youth, addicts, and refugees via vocational training (arts, sports, agriculture).
Clubs like Wasichana Na Maendeleo (Girls’ Empowerment) foster gender equality.
Awareness Campaigns
Radio programs (e.g., Joy FM) challenge stereotypes about disabilities.
Participation in Global Action Week for Education (GAWE) to advocate for inclusive policies.
Community-Based Rehabilitation
Home visits to support families of children with disabilities.
Parental training on income-generating activities to reduce poverty-linked stigma.
Aqua Lodge: A guesthouse where travelers’ stays fund our charitable projects.
Rental Properties: Commercial and residential spaces generate income to sustain our mission.
We organize health camps, skills workshops, and environmental initiatives to empower entire communities.
From mental health care to deaf empowerment and street youth rehabilitation, the Brothers of Charity in Tanzania embody their founder’s vision: “Let God’s love shine for the marginalized.” Their projects—rooted in compassion, practical skills, and advocacy—transform lives while confronting societal barriers.
"Inclusion is not a privilege; it is a right we fight for daily."
For collaboration or support, contact the Brothers of Charity – Saint-Dominic Region, Kigoma.
✅ Local Expertise: Deep roots in Kigoma ensure culturally relevant solutions.
✅ Transparency: Every donation directly impacts lives—no middlemen.
✅ Holistic Approach: We address education, health, and poverty together.
✅ Volunteer-Driven: Local and international volunteers amplify our impact.
Join Us
Whether you donate, volunteer, or partner with us, you’re helping write stories of hope.
"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much."
