Doing whatever it takes for Children with disabilities to have a childhood they deserve - Claudette's Story

By Christine Tuyisenge, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Specialist for World Vision Rwanda

Claudette, 10, from Rusizi district, is one of the children with disabilities enrolled in USAID Uburezi Iwacu activity. Born with albinism, Claudette faced numerous challenges whether at school or in the community in general. She was the subject of mockery, neglect and discrimination due to her skin color.  Some fellow children feared her, but her parents tried their best to support her though, they did not fully make it as she dropped out from school. USAID Uburezi Iwacu intervened for Claudette to have a childhood she deserves and did whatever it takes for her treatment and going back to school. 

Claudette’s story in her own words: 

Before I used to miss school many times due to vision difficulties. In classroom, I had to sit closer to the chalkboard which was even not enough because I was still having problems to see what is written on the chalkboard. Sometimes my classmates would laugh at how I walked because I was afraid, I could fall or kick on something unknowingly. There were some games that I could not participate in because my friends feared that I would make them lose because I couldn’t see well. However, this situation changed since last year due to Uburezi Iwacu project. I was assessed and received the treatment I needed.  I can say that a lot has changed in my life because I went back to school, and my friends and classmates don’t tease me anymore due to my vision problems. Also, I received a proper cream for my skin which prevented it from cracking. I am so happy and I am so thankful to Uburezi Iwacu project for their support, shared Claudetrte, 10.

USAID Uburezi Iwacu supported Claudette from identification through the community volunteer, treatment and provisional of different materials to assist in her daily life. Including skin creams, and sun glasses.

What can I say!! Sometime me and her father got speechless when we see the positive transformation in the life of our daughter. She is happy, confident and full of energy which was not the case before, says Caludette's mum

Now, she is able to go to school without any problems and since then she hasn’t missed school. We hope for a bright future for our daughter, and as a parent I can say that there is nothing fulfilling than to see her children progress in life.  I am sure that when people start to realize Claudette’s progress, their attitudes will change and they will have another perception around disabilities. However, there is much to appreciate already because due to community awareness raising sessions, people are changing their mind slowly but surely. So, we will continue to share our experience and raise awareness I know that the future of our children is bright”.  Shared Claudette’s mother.

Since its inception in 2021, USAID Uburezi Iwacu targeted to reach 26,531 children with disabilities by 2026, where by 4,090 children with disabilities like Claudette, will have referred to support services.  As of now more than 30,000 children with disabilities have supported under USAID Uburezi Iwacu activity.