The harrowing tales of Dar’s homeless youth during the October 29 unrest: A tale of survival and resilience
In the heart of Dar es Salaam, on the night of October 29, 2025, chaos unfolded. While the city slept or sought refuge, 14-year-old Patrick Matano found himself wandering the streets of Ubungo, seeking a place to hide. The sound of gunfire echoed through the night, a stark reminder of the danger that loomed.
Matano, one of the many homeless youth who call the makeshift kiosks of Mwenge home, recalls the terror with vivid detail. He spent six consecutive days in those abandoned kiosks, listening to the distant sounds of gunfire and explosions. The fear was palpable, and the need to stay hidden was constant.
But the struggle for survival didn’t end there. The group faced the challenge of finding food. Matano, who earns a living washing car windows, had to rely on the kindness of passersby and the little savings he had. Omari, another youth, shared how they managed to buy food with the money they earned and the help of well-wishers.
The journey was not without its perils. Jimmy Lioha recounted how they were chased, caught, and beaten by authorities. The fear of violence lingered, even after the initial chaos subsided. The sound of the wind now triggers a primal fear, a reminder of the potential for violence to return.
For those who managed to find temporary shelter, the struggle continued. Mohamed Selemani, a newcomer from Mwanza, was rescued by a scrap collector who provided him with food and clothes. The group had to contribute whatever they could, with some contributing up to 3,000 shillings. The need for food was constant, and the journey to find it was often perilous.
The resilience of these young people is remarkable. Despite the challenges, they found ways to survive and support each other. Matano, shaken by his experiences, yearns for the comfort of home in Dodoma. He is now working to save for the bus fare, determined to return to his family.
As life slowly returns to normal, the homeless youth of Dar es Salaam continue to face challenges. Rajabu Salum, a can collector, describes the constant fear of police patrols and the need to hide in alleys and unfinished buildings during the rain. The struggle for survival persists, but the resilience of these young people remains a testament to their strength in the face of adversity.