Reflections on Our Time in Tanzania by Leanie Geldenhuys
In 2024 a group of people travelled to Tanzania and as part of their trip visited the Joshua School in Magugu. City Impact Church members sponsor over 190 children attending the school. The sponsorships provide supply the children with clothing, food, and school supplies, enabling these children to experience an education that may not otherwise be available to them. To learn more about the group’s experience in Magugu, here’s a report from one of the members, Leanie.
“Wow, what an amazing and blessed time we had in Tanzania! It’s incredible how quickly five weeks flew by. I can’t help but marvel at how perfectly our team came together. For nearly four years, I’ve felt a calling to go to Tanzania, specifically Magugu, and had previously reached out to Lynda from the Joshua Foundation. But when Sharon Hunt (from our North Shore Campus) connected with Pastor Greg, God simply added the right people to our team until we became four—the planner, the builder, and two teachers-in-training who have a passion for children.
We divided our time between Arusha and Magugu, with a brief safari in the middle, giving us a well-rounded experience of Tanzania’s beauty. However, if we all agree on one thing, it’s that the people of Magugu truly captured our hearts.
In Magugu, we formed a deep connection with the Dangalo family, who are at the heart of the local school. Their love for the community shines brightly—they even started a church nearby. They welcomed us with open arms, inviting us into their homes and community. We were immersed in their food, culture, and traditions. From dining out and playing pool on Fridays to worshiping and dancing at their church, we experienced the richness of life in Magugu.
Though the week in Magugu was short, it was incredibly fulfilling. We repaired around 35 desks and 12 chairs for the classrooms—a task that brought us closer to the school’s teachers and staff, who eagerly helped with sanding, sawing, and other repairs. We left behind tools, materials, and the knowledge they needed to continue repairing furniture in the future. Our time there also included refurbishing two playgrounds, with the swings and see-saws immediately filling with joyful children eager to play again. The two teachers-to-be left their mark by painting the playground, ensuring that their love for the children would remain even after we had gone.
I feel so blessed and honoured to have been part of this trip and to have had this life-changing experience. But deep in my heart, I know this is only the beginning of our journey in Magugu. I believe God has placed this community close to my heart, and I feel called to invest even more into it. I will definitely be back—hopefully very soon.”
Ubari Kiwe (God bless you, in Swahili).
