WIFE of Zanzibar First Vice President Othman Masoud Othman, Zainab Kombo Shaib, has called on organisations and individuals with resources to provide support to various institutions that assist orphaned children.

She made the appeal on Sunday at the 13th awards event for orphaned children held at Saaten Preparatory School.

She reiterated that through the efforts, the society could help improve quality of life for orphaned children, reducing the risks of neglect and exclusion from educational and other opportunities.

The event was organised by the Zanzibar Islamic Association for Education and Economic Development (UKUEM), an organisation committed to improving the lives of vulnerable children in the isles.

In her speech, she stressed that orphaned children face a variety of challenges ranging from loss of parental guidance to a lack of basic needs like food, clothing and shelter. 

She pointed out that providing support to such children would go a long way in alleviating their struggles, allowing them to live a dignified life despite their difficult circumstances. 

 “This is not only an opportunity to help children in need but also to fulfil a sacred duty. The rewards are far greater than any material gain,” she said. 

She urged the society to contribute wholeheartedly to supporting orphaned children as this will secure a good outcome for the disadvantaged children.

She further pointed out that orphaned children in various parts of Zanzibar, on the islands of Unguja and Pemba, face extreme hardship. Many live without the basic necessity of life and the burden on their caregivers is overwhelming. 

“Despite the difficulties they face, such children deserve the chance to lead better lives and it is our duty to ensure their needs are met,” she said.

The Chairperson of the Nuru Foundation, an organisation dedicated to helping orphans, made a personal donation of 50 sets of school uniforms, 50 pairs of shoes and school bags worth 2.26m/- for the children. 

She expressed her hope that her contribution would inspire others to give and support the welfare of orphaned children in Zanzibar.

UKUEM chairman Biarous Masheko said that the organisation in collaboration with various donors was working to address educational and other challenges faced by orphaned children. 

He said the association is committed to expanding its efforts to help more orphans, particularly in improving access to education and providing essential supplies.

 “We seek to increase our outreach and support for orphans by ensuring they receive education and resources they need for a brighter future,” he said.