Kildare Couple’s Eye-Opening Journey to Tanzania
Kildare Couple’s Eye-Opening Journey to Tanzania
Meeting Their Sponsored Children and Witnessing Change in Motion
Last month, Rachel McLoughlin and Chris Kelly, a couple from County Kildare, travelled to Tanzania with World Vision Ireland to meet their sponsored children and witness the real-life impact of their support. What they experienced was a journey filled with emotion, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Their first stops were in Endabash and Lake Eyasi, where they visited long-standing Area Programmes. World Vision has been working in these communities for over 15 years, and the results were truly inspiring. In these vibrant areas, they saw children thriving in well-equipped schools, clean water flowing from taps, and communities empowered through sustainable development. “It was incredible to see what can be achieved in a relatively short time,” Rachel said. “The little bit of support that can be offered from us each month has a far-reaching impact on these communities.”
From there, the journey continued to Oljoro, a newly launched Area Programme supported by World Vision Ireland. The contrast was striking. Lacking even the most basic infrastructure, the community faces daily challenges—none more pressing than access to clean water.
“One moment that will stay with me was witnessing the women and children collecting water in Oljoro,” said Rachel. “We’ve all seen images like this on television, but seeing it in person was deeply affecting. The women were working tirelessly, not only to fetch water for their families but also to care for their children at the same time. This wasn’t a one-off task—it was part of their daily reality.”
She continued, “It really brought home the lack of choice and the limited access to clean, safe drinking water—something many of us take for granted.”
Chris reflected on the stark contrast between Oljoro and the more established communities. “After visiting a community where World Vision has worked for over 15 years and comparing it to Oljoro, the differences were apparent. A clean water supply made such a change to the quality of life. Something we take for granted,” he said. The experience underscored just how transformative access to basic resources can be—and how much potential lies ahead for Oljoro.
Despite these challenges, the welcome was unforgettable. “We were greeted with such warmth,” Rachel shared. “Meeting my sponsored child, Zawadi, and her family was incredibly moving. Even though she’s not yet two, the connection we felt through her parents was powerful. It reminded me that children are the same everywhere—full of wonder.”
Chris echoed the sentiment after meeting his sponsored child, Oliva. “There was a mix of nerves and excitement,” he said. “Oliva is just under four, and while she was shy, she lit up when we gave her a teddy bear. I’m excited to follow up with her family through World Vision as she grows in life.”
The trip left a lasting impression. “It was emotional,” Rachel reflected. “From heartbreak to laughter, the people never wavered in their positivity. It made me realise how much we take for granted.”
Chris added, “I left wanting to do more—not just financially, but in any way I can. The experience made the impact of sponsorship real.”
Their message to others considering sponsorship? “Do it,” Rachel said. “You won’t regret it. Even the smallest contribution can have a lasting impact.”
Chris agreed: “Don’t think twice. But take the time to understand what you’re supporting—it’s powerful.”