Musa the Almajiri

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Read Computer Science from Federal Polytechnic Idah, Kogi State Nigeria; presently works with an N.G.O. Musa lives in Mararaba a densely populated low income settlement; on the outskirts of Abuja, Nigeria. He happens to be one of those kids known as Almajiri; beggars or street kids. I met him during one of my visits to see a friend, so full of life, jumping and smiling around with his caftan and plate he was holding to beg for money. As I highlighted from the bus he came towards me smiling begging for money to buy food and sachet water to drink. Moved with pity to put a satisfying smile on his face, I gave him five hundred naira; with excitement he greeted me with broad smiles, thank you, he said jumping. Taking pictures of him make me to be down-to-earth. His attitude has helped in photography. He has to beg, do anomalous jobs to feed himself , keep body, soul together, on a daily bases. It was what really prompted me to send this entry because if you can’t be actually equal, engross yourself in this environment without perception. You can’t transform anyone’s life; it’s not about money but intension.I came to realised that there are many Musa that need support, to actualised their dream in life that except people like me, you give them a helping hand they would become nuisance. I have little resources but I would improve their lives by teaching them photography, painting, to enable them make money for themselves, put smiles on their faces. Admittance is principal thing may my photos; help me to put smiles on the face of the less privilege in South Africa, Humanity at large with Mr Jason .E. as we discover it. I would want to be a professional photographer.