About Us & Impact

Our Mission

Spirit of the Community links skilled people in Nyarugusu refugee camp, Kigoma, Tanzania, with clients and buyers worldwide. We verify talent, host a marketplace for handmade goods, and offer secure payment so that income reaches workers and artisans directly. Our goal is to help the camp become more self-sufficient by creating real jobs and sales channels.

Impact at a Glance

28% of adult internet users in Nyarugusu seek informal education on their phones (GSMA)

3G Connectivity in camp (Airtel, Halotel, Tigo) enables remote work and learning

Verified Every talent profile is checked so clients can trust who they hire

Mobile-first Site built for smartphones—how most people in the camp get online

Stories from the Camp

From tailor to small business

Marie joined Spirit of the Community to reach clients outside the camp. She now receives orders from Dar es Salaam and abroad for custom clothing and school uniforms, and uses the income to support her family and buy materials in bulk.

Translation that bridges borders

Jean Claude works with NGOs and businesses that need Swahili, French, and Kirundi. His profile on the platform has led to steady remote translation work, turning his language skills into a reliable income.

Crafts that travel

Artisans in the camp sell baskets and traditional crafts through our marketplace. Buyers in Europe and the US can order directly, and payments via M-Pesa and cards make it possible for sellers to receive funds safely.

When you hire talent or buy from our marketplace, you support real livelihoods in Nyarugusu.

Browse Talent Shop Crafts