Empowering Dreams!
Overcoming Barriers for Children with Disabilities affected by conflict
Wondimu, a sixteen-year-old boy with a physical disability, escaped conflict in his hometown in the Amhara region and sought refuge in the IDP site of Debark. Reflecting on their ordeal, he shares, "We lost everything and lived in an IDP site for over a year and a half." Wondimu lives with his mother and older sister, who provide him with daily support. He lost his father when he was just a small child, and now the family is determined to rebuild their lives interrupted by the conflict.
Wondimu has lived with his physical disability since birth, relying on a wheelchair for mobility. However, his wheelchair is hindered by the need for several repairs, coupled with the town's inaccessible terrain. Consequently, he relies on the kindness of the community, religious leaders, and social workers. "I'm truly grateful for the work of social workers, especially Zemen. She visits my home and provides me with psychosocial support. Thanks to her, I have a positive outlook on life, and she has instilled in me the belief that I can become a successful businessman someday."
Wondimu's dream is to own a small shop, selling items like biscuits and soft drinks. He and his mother are working tirelessly towards this goal, with the UNICEF Shock Responsive Cash Transfers. In total, they received a lifesaving sum of 12,225 ETB, made possible by the generous funding from FCDO; an initial amount of ETB 9,500, an additional ETB 1,125 for disability top up, and 1,600 ETB (the equivalent value of a dignity kit). Wondimu keeps meticulous records of their spending in his notebook, documenting expenses like the ETB 2,200 used to repair one wheel of his wheelchair, ETB 480 for school supplies, ETB 750 for clothing, and some funds allocated towards establishing the business.
Even though Wondimu is grateful for the financial support through UNICEF’s Shock Responsive Cash Transfer, he underlines the limitations that disability poses. For instance, to fully repair his wheelchair, he would require around ETB 8,000, an amount beyond their current income. However, he finds solace in the fact that at least one wheel has been fixed.
"I know that people love me. I am incredibly optimistic and believe I can achieve anything just like any other child."
Thanks to the support of the community and the partially repaired wheelchair, Wondimu can attend school, where some teachers offer him additional attention and assistance. He cherishes the time he spends with friends, engaging in deep conversations about life and their shared experiences. "I know that people love me. I am incredibly optimistic and believe I can achieve anything just like any other child." While Wondimu does not perceive his physical disability as a barrier to love or success, he yearns for proper medical treatment that would enable him to run and play freely with his peers. Unfortunately, the closest medical facilities are in Addis Ababa, a journey they cannot currently afford. For now, he relies on his unwavering Orthodox faith to provide him with strength.
Although Wondimu's passion, beliefs, and unwavering determination fuel his dreams, he must first overcome additional barriers caused by the conflict. He missed a year of school, and his home was looted and vandalized. Wondimu belongs to the 10 % of children with disabilities who are often left behind, especially during times of war and disasters. Moreover, they face a two to four times higher risk of dying or being injured. Wondimu will need additional support from his family and community to overcome multiple barriers.
