Smiles and laughter since reuniting with biological family in Tanzania
Jamil* grew up in SOS Children's Villages in Dar es Salaam. He was reunited with his biological family and now lives with his aunt and uncle in Mkuranga, Tanzania.
Laughter returns to Jamil’s family home
There is rarely a dull moment in Farida's house, especially since her nephew, Jamil, moved in. Farida describes him as a real comedian, capable of making the whole family burst out laughing. Whether cracking jokes or playfully teasing a fruit seller whose fruit basket sits crookedly on his head, Jamil brings joy to everyday life.
"I'm so happy that he lives with us now. I feel like his mother, like I gave birth to him myself. He calls me ’mom’ and that makes me happy," says Farida.
Farida and her husband have three biological children of their own, aged 9, 16, and 22. Their family grew two years ago, when Jamil, then 12, transitioned from SOS Children's Villages in Dar es Salaam to their home in Mkuranga. His return was part of SOS Children’s Villages’ ongoing efforts to help children grow up with their biological families whenever possible.
A difficult start in life
Jamil’s journey hasn't always been filled with laughter. His mother died during childbirth, leaving the family in financial hardship. Struggling to meet their basic needs, Jamil’s grandmother cared for him during his first year of life, but they couldn't always afford baby formula.
"He became so thin, just skin and bones," recalls Jamil's aunt, Farida.
When Jamil was about a year old, the family placed him in an orphanage run by a Catholic organization. He lived there until the age of four, and was then welcomed by SOS Children's Villages in Dar es Salaam, where the focus is on family-like bonds and long-term support.
In the village, he grew up with an SOS mother and siblings. However, he often struggled with frustration and anger. With support from a psychologist, he gradually learned to express his emotions and recognize his own needs.
The path to family reunification
At SOS Children's Villages, we believe that whenever possible and when it is in their best interest, a child should know their family of origin. Staff are constantly working to trace relatives of the children growing up in SOS Children's Villages. In Jamil's case, they found his aunt, uncle, and grandmother.
When Jamil was around 11 years old, SOS Children’s Villages staff asked him if he wanted to visit his biological family. Jamil immediately said yes. After that, he started spending all his school vacations at his aunt and uncle's home in the village of Mkuranga.
Godson Tony, a team member at SOS Children's Villages Tanzania, visited the family to ensure they had the means to care for Jamil. He explained, "It was clear that the family's finances were much better than before because the uncle had gotten a permanent job as a driver."
"Jamil stayed with the family during the Christmas holidays in 2022, and when the holidays were over, we asked him if he was ready to move back home to his family. He didn't hesitate to say yes," says Godson Tony.
Building a new life as a family
It's now over two years since Jamil took the big step from SOS Children's Villages to everyday life in the house with the gray bricks and palm trees in the courtyard. He never feels alone here. The family does everything together: they eat together, help each other with everyday practical tasks and sit together in the living room and tell stories. Jamil's grandmother often comes to visit, and feels relieved that the family is together again.
”I'm so happy when I see the children playing together. Now we are one big family," says grandmother Tausi, 72.
Jamil himself says he loves playing soccer with his 9-year-old cousin. After school, they practice juggling and dribbling on the sandy ground in front of the house.
"I can feel that my family cares about me. That's why I've become very happy since I came here," says Jamil.
Even though Jamil now lives with his family, SOS Children's Villages continues to support his education, health and wellbeing, ensuring a smooth transition and strong bonds. In addition, SOS Children's Villages staff regularly visit the family to ensure that Jamil is thriving.
There is no doubt that he is. Jamil is surrounded by love, laughter, and a family that supports his future.
*names changed to protect privacy