Oct

Fanning Into Flame: VICOBAPlus Facilitators Dar es Salaam

In October 2025, facilitators from across East Africa converged in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania for a week that would reignite the heart of the VICOBAPlus movement.

They came from Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC, and Tanzania, seventeen facilitators, each carrying the stories of the communities they serve.

From the opening circle, the tone was set: “What do we have?” replaced “What do we need?” The talking stick moved from hand to hand, and with every story shared, a deeper sense of connection emerged. Facilitators spoke of the transformation of communities that had learned to dream again, of women who had moved from fear to leadership, and of youth who now see themselves as assets rather than dependents.

Each day unfolded like a living classroom. Mornings began with shared reflection and storytelling; afternoons came alive with group exercises and dream mapping sessions. The Dream Tree activity where facilitators visualized hopes for 2026 became a symbol of shared purpose. Its roots represented the VICOBAPlus DNA: mindset shift, community, livelihoods, and leadership. Its branches stretched toward the future; new facilitators, new communities, stronger cross-pollination, and a movement ready to multiply.

In between sessions, songs of hope filled the air. Laughter, debates, and late-night conversations deepened the bond between facilitators who know that VICOBAPlus is more than a program, it’s a way of seeing and being.

By the final day, the energy in the room had shifted. Each facilitator left with renewed fire, ready to return home, to mentor others, and to guard the DNA that has inspired transformation across the region.