A father of six and resident of Iganjo Ward in Mbeya City has appealed for support to acquire a Bajaji tricycle, saying it would help him rebuild his livelihood and support his family despite living with a disability.
Mr Enelrst Mwagama, who lives in Shinga Street, made the appeal to former Speaker of the National Assembly and President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Tulia Ackson, when her community outreach campaign known as Bendera ya Upendo reached the area.
Mr Mwagama, who is physically disabled and struggles with mobility due to a long-term diabetes condition, said the illness has significantly limited his ability to work and earn a stable income for his family.
He said the situation often worsens when his health deteriorates, making it difficult for him even to walk.
“At times my condition becomes severe. I cannot walk properly and when I cannot move, I cannot work. Without work there is no food for me and my children,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Mr Mwagama said he has been trying to make a living through shoe repair, but the business attracts few customers, leaving him with a daily income ranging between TZS 3,000 and TZS 6,000.
He noted that the amount is barely enough to sustain his family and cover medical expenses.
According to him, a large portion of the small earnings goes towards diabetes medication, forcing him to set aside between TZS 2,000 and TZS 3,000 every day to continue treatment.
Speaking on March 27, 2026, when the Bendera ya Upendo campaign reached Shinga Street in Iganjo Ward, Mr Mwagama expressed gratitude for the food support he received during the visit, describing it as timely assistance ahead of the Easter season.
“I sincerely thank Dr Tulia for the food support she has given us. It has brought relief to my family. But if I could get a Bajaji, it would help me become more independent and support my children,” he said.
Another resident of the area, Mr Dotto Mwasake, said the outreach programme had brought renewed hope to vulnerable families in the community, including Mr Mwagama’s household.
He said families facing hardship, particularly those headed by people with disabilities, often struggle to meet basic needs.
“This man has six children and life is not easy. They need food, education and other basic needs. Reaching out to families like his is something worth commending,” he said.
Mr Mwasake added that the initiative to support people with special needs, the elderly and other vulnerable groups across the 61 streets found in the 13 wards of Uyole Constituency demonstrates a commitment to strengthening community support systems.
Through the Bendera ya Upendo campaign, Dr Tulia has been reaching out to various vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities and the elderly, as part of efforts to promote social solidarity and assist communities facing economic challenges.
