For Marchu Christine, a 17-year-old from Domok Village in Kaabong District, life with a disability often meant isolation. Born with a condition that affected her mobility, she relied on an uncomfortable wooden walking aid. The discomfort, combined with societal stigma, led her to avoid community gatherings and believe that her future held little promise.
After dropping out of school in 2021 due to lack of parental support and low self-esteem, Christine’s life took a turning point in March 2022 when she learned about KAPDA’s Bonga programme. She decided to join, hoping to find not just skills, but also a renewed sense of purpose.
At the Bonga Centre, Christine participated in life skills sessions, received guidance and counselling, and began interacting freely with peers. Slowly, her confidence grew. She learned effective communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills, and most importantly, she began to believe in herself again.
KAPDA also provided her with a pair of high-quality crutches, replacing her old wooden aid. With her new mobility, Christine could walk longer distances, participate in gardening to support her family, and re-engage with her community.
Today, Christine is more than just a participant—she is an advocate for the rights of persons living with disabilities. She encourages others to embrace their abilities, no matter the challenges they face.
Her journey shows that when given the right tools, support, and belief, disability does not define one’s potential—it amplifies it.