Shiduki, 71, Tanzania

Shiduki is 71 years old and lives in Sukumaland, Tanzania. After her husband's death, she was forced out of her home and accused of witchcraft.

A community mobilisation programme run by HelpAge International's partner, NABROHO, built Shiduki a new home and worked with the local community to change its attitudes towards older women.

"After my husband died, his relatives started to complain that I was still living in the house.

"My children were very young and they were taken by their aunts so I left the property to his family. I had no choice because it was decided like that.

Ostracised by the community

"Before the community mobilisation programme, I was living in an old house. It wasn't safe. The rain came in and it was like living in a tree. I used to get bitten by insects all the time.

"I lived alone there for seven years and it was very difficult. My relationship with the community was very bad. People despised me for being useless. They thought I had nothing and nobody would help me.

"I was threatened several times and I used to receive letters accusing me of being a witch. The letters said: 'You take your last meal today. You won't survive the night. You will be killed because you are a witch.'

"I know at least 14 women who were threatened here but we didn't know who was making the threats.

Changing attitudes

"Since the programme started many things have changed. People started to value me. I was selected by the community as a vulnerable person.

"They built my house and gave me support. The bricks in my house were made by the community. They brought sand and stones and water to help make them. Since I've lived here, I've had no problems.

"I now understand more about my rights. I should be provided with housing and food and should not be isolated. I used to have to hide before the programme began here but now I live in peace. I'm not afraid anymore."