Faraja (Swahili word for "comfort") Orphans Rescue Ministry is a non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to empowering orphans and vulnerable children in Musoma, on their journey of embracing responsibility for their lives and families. The foundation of our organization is rooted in the life journey of Sarah Mpanilehi, who, as an orphan herself, embraced the responsibility of caring for her younger siblings. Initiallyin 2005, Rev. Samuel and Sarah Mpanilehi provided support to local children from their own resources. As time passed, more children gravitated towards our mission, leading us to establish FORM as an NGO in 2005. This step enabled us to forge partnerships with global partners and extend our reach to impact the lives of even more children. Our method involves children living with nearby or extended family members. Numerous children reside with their single mothers, grandmothers, as well as aunts and uncles. This enables them to maintain a sense of family unity. It not only positively impacts the child but also the family they are a part of.
At FORM, we embrace the belief that children thrive on diverse forms of nurturing, understanding that mere sustenance is just the beginning. This is why we gather with our FORM family every Saturday for what we fondly refer to as the "Saturday program". It is a time for the children to engage in play, foster connections, and get to know Jesus better and better. Meanwhile, we have the privilege to offer guidance, spiritual support, and a listening ear to the children as they navigate through life's challenges.
In Musoma, Sarah Mpanilehi and our dedicated social worker Mauma oversee the Saturday program. They not only organize these gatherings but also make regular visits to the children's homes and schools.
Beyond providing practical and spiritual guidance, nurturing our children's education holds significant value. Equipping them with suitable skills, whether through apprenticeships or university studies tailored to their unique talents and passions, empowers them to embrace accountability for their future and that of their loved ones.
In 2024, a second branch of FORM started. Nestled in the heart of Tanzania, in the city of Iringa, the call to nurture orphans and vulnerable children emerged in partnership with the “Agripioneers” (https://agripioneers.org/portfolio/) project, operating under FORM. Leveraging the existing facilities provided by Agripioneers, we enlisted a dedicated social worker and to oversee the Saturday program and conduct routine visits to children at their homes and schools, mirroring our efforts in Musoma. Her work is supported by a a german Missionary couple. We hope to officially launch this branch in September 2024.