The Almajiri system in northern Nigeria involves children leaving their homes to study the Qur’an under local Islamic teachers, often without adequate parental care or structured support. While rooted in cultural and religious traditions, the system has increasingly exposed many Almajiri children to hunger, malnutrition, and insecurity, seriously impacting their physical growth, cognitive development, and ability to learn.
Recognizing these challenges, Murmushi People’s Development Foundation launched the Murmushi Almajiri Support Initiative (MASI), a targeted program aimed at improving the well-being of Almajiri children through consistent access to nutritious meals. In 2025, MASI aims to reach and provide meals every Friday to over 2,000 Almajiri children across Adamawa State, helping to restore dignity, promote health, and support their educational journey.
In addition to providing nutritious meals, Murmushi also integrates WASH-related education into each feeding session. Through engaging presentations and demonstrations, Almajiri children are taught essential hygiene and sanitation practices, such as handwashing, dishwashing, safe water use, and personal cleanliness, to foster long-term behavior change and improve overall health outcomes.