Food Security Support for Families Facing Economic Hardship
For many families in Tanzania, the holy month of Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, community, and family. But for low income households, fasting season can also bring real economic strain. Rising food prices, lost daily wages, and the cost of preparing iftar meals for large families leave many struggling to put food on the table at the moment of breaking the fast. For widows, the elderly, families with young children, and those living in remote villages, the burden is heaviest.
The Doris Mollel Foundation launched the Ramadan Basket Project in 2021 to bring tangible food security support to Muslim families facing economic hardship during Ramadan. Each basket contains essential food items to sustain a household through the month of fasting, including rice, sugar, cooking oil, flour, and other staples needed to prepare suhoor and iftar meals. Baskets are distributed door to door directly to recipients in their homes, preserving dignity and ensuring the support reaches those who need it most.
The project is regularly implemented in close collaboration with the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), United Arab Emirates Tanzania, and local government authorities, including District Commissioners, District Sheikhs, Members of Parliament, and ward and village leaders. Distributions have reached communities across multiple regions of Tanzania, including:
- Zanzibar, in Kizimkazi, Dimbani, and Kibuteni villages.
- Dar es Salaam, in Tandale and Msoga.
- Tanga, in Mabokweni, Mzizima, Kiomoni, and Chongoleani.
- Mafia Island, in Kilindoni and Chole villages.
- Kilwa, in Kilwa Masoko Town and Pambe village.
Coordination with local sheikhs and government authorities ensures that beneficiaries are identified through trusted community channels, that distributions are culturally respectful, and that the project complements rather than duplicates other forms of social support during the month. Each year, the project also draws the involvement of senior government leaders, including past participation by the then Minister of State, President's Office Regional Administration and Local Government, Hon. Ummy Mwalimu, alongside Members of Parliament, religious leaders, and district officials.
Beyond the immediate relief of food, the Ramadan Basket Project carries a deeper meaning. It strengthens the bond between DMF and the communities it serves, reinforces the value of solidarity during Ramadan, and reminds vulnerable families that they have not been forgotten. The project reflects DMF's commitment under its Emerging Issues focus area to respond with flexibility and compassion to the social and economic pressures that affect family health and wellbeing.
To partner with us or support future Ramadan basket distributions, please email us at partnerships@dorismollelfoundation.org.