As Tanzania counts down to the New Year 2026, the Rural Energy Agency (REA) has extended a gesture of compassion to vulnerable citizens, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility alongside rural electrification efforts.
The initiative was carried out in Hombolo Ward, Dodoma City, where REA donated various essential items to a group of people living with leprosy. The outreach was led by Ms Judith Abdalah on behalf of REA Director General, Eng. Hassan Saidy.
Speaking during the handover, Ms Abdalah conveyed REA’s New Year greetings and urged the beneficiaries to continue living in peace, unity and mutual support.
She said the agency would continue to stand with disadvantaged groups by providing assistance aimed at improving their social and economic wellbeing.
“REA believes that development must be inclusive. As we approach the New Year, it is important to remember and support those in need so that no one is left behind,” she said.
The chairperson of the REA Workers’ Union branch (TUGHE), Mr Swalehe Kibwana, said reaching out to people with special needs was part of the agency’s ongoing social outreach programme.
He noted that REA would continue to support people living with leprosy in Hombolo and other vulnerable groups as part of its community engagement efforts.
Also speaking at the event, Dodoma Regional Chairperson of the Women and Samia Group, Ms Fatuma Madudu, commended REA for visiting Hombolo and providing much-needed support to people living with leprosy. She said the gesture would help ease their daily challenges and boost morale ahead of the New Year celebrations.
Meanwhile, the Secretary of the Hombolo Leprosy Group called on other institutions, stakeholders and individuals to emulate REA by extending support to people living with leprosy, particularly through food assistance, to enable them to welcome the New Year with dignity.
Residents described the initiative as timely and meaningful, saying it reflects the spirit of solidarity and shared responsibility as the country ushers in 2026.