On Easter Monday, April 21st, 2025, the community of Austin House in the Vice-Province of East Africa, comprised of Fr. Morris (the community bursar) and seven brothers, represented the community by paying a meaningful visit to the Mountain of Joy Foundation (MJF) in Muriet, Arusha. The group was warmly welcomed by Elia Dyitege, the founder of the orphanage, along with several caregivers. After the children had gathered, Elia offered a briefing about the vision and mission of the center and shared touching stories of the children in his care.
The Mountain of Joy Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Arusha, Tanzania, dedicated to empowering children, youth, and young adults with disabilities, particularly those with autism and cognitive challenges. Founded in 2018 by Elia Dyitege, MJF strives to enhance the quality of life for children with disabilities through access to education, vocational training, and integration into society. What began as a small, courageous effort with just 12 children has grown into a remarkable foundation currently supporting around 30 children aged 5–22.
These children come from various difficult backgrounds: abandoned by families, rescued from the streets, or referred by government institutions that could not provide for them. Many suffer from a range of complex neurological and psychological conditions, including Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), pseudobulbar affect (PBA), and early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
The care provided at MJF focuses not on intellectual advancement but on building essential life skills that allow the children to function independently and with dignity. Despite their challenges, many can wash clothes, use the toilet independently, sew, or make small purchases; clear indicators of progress.
Elia’s mission has always been guided by compassion and resilience. He has faced social stigma, limited resources, and the indifference of many institutions. Yet his dedication remains unwavering, driven by the belief that all children, regardless of their mental state, deserve love, dignity, and opportunity.
Our Contribution and Experience
During our visit, we donated essential items including:
• 2 bags of rice
• 1 bag of unga (maize flour) 50kg
• 2 buckets of porridge flour
• 1 jerrycan of cooking oil
These supplies were intended to support the daily nutritional needs of the children and alleviate some of the center’s ongoing material challenges. More importantly, we spent time interacting with the children, listening, learning, and experiencing firsthand the incredible spirit that resides in each of them.
Despite their conditions, the children exude resilience, creativity, and joy. Our visit reminded us of the dignity and value that every human life holds. It was a profound experience of grace, seeing how God works even through fragility, reminding us that disability does not diminish one’s worth or potential. This truly marked a sign of hope to others from our community.
