Wukwashi Wa Nzambi Zambia

The Context

Of all children at risk, those living with disability are amongst the most stigmatised and neglected. For those affected by poverty the situation is exacerbated. It is not unusual for a disabled child to be confined to their home with no stimulation, because their parents lack the finances, knowledge and support needed to care appropriately for their child.

The Project

Established in 2005 in the Copperbelt region of Zambia, Wukwashi Wa Nzambi brings rehabilitation to disabled children through a simple, sustainable response, transforming the lives of children and caregivers alike.

In home-based support groups across the area, children receive rehabilitative therapy to help their development, whilst parents learn techniques to use at home. Basic mobility aids are constructed to help children learn to stand, walk or be mobile in buggies. A telephone advice line provides another method of ongoing support.

Wukwashi helps organise access to specialist medical care for those needing corrective surgery or vital medical investigations. Appropriate solutions for education are also arranged.

The Results

• Many disabled children are enjoying significant changes in mobility, social interaction. skills development and acceptance in their communities.
• Through eight support groups, parents and caregivers are learning how to give appropriate care to their children.
• Volunteers from local churches have developed skills in community-based rehabilitation and are gaining on-going training and experience in support group facilitation and project management. Thus the foundations for long term sustainability and growth have been laid.

BCT’s Involvement

• Information resources. Advice and training in project management and development.
• Financial support towards: support groups and rehabilitative therapy; medical interventions; schooling; telephone advice line; awareness raising; volunteer training.

BCT is grateful to Bristish Airways for providing 2 complimentary tickets to Zambia, enabling BCT staff to visit Wukwashi Wa Nzambi in October 2009.