In the heart of the Rutunga sector, Gasabo District, the Jordan Foundation, a Rwandan NGO dedicated to supporting children with visual impairment disabilities, recently hosted its annual Christmas party on December 21. This festive event marked a moment of joy and connection for underprivileged visual impairment children who, despite their visual impairment, revelled in the warmth of shared meals, music, and thoughtful conversations. The celebration, a cherished tradition of the foundation, concluded with the heartfelt exchange of gifts.

The event was more than a festive gathering; it represented a beacon of hope for children facing daunting challenges. Michelle Isimbi, the coordinator of the Jordan Foundation, highlighted the critical support provided to these children and their families, encompassing health, education, psychosocial care, and socio-economic empowerment.

The children under the foundation’s care hail from underprivileged families across Rwanda, grappling with nightmares of discrimination and brutality from their communities. Isimbi revealed the Foundation’s commitment to addressing malnutrition among the 150 children in their nursery boarding school is among the primary challenges as most of the visually impaired children enrolled come with malnutrition diseases.

Through balanced diets, thorough check-ups, and medical treatments, they ensure the well-being of these children before they embark on their academic journeys. Positively, as for now, six of the children have received full and intensive medical treatments and have regained their sight. They were now sent home where the foundation supports them in education and social life as well.

Upon completing nursery school, the children are enrolled in the few schools available that can accept children with visual impairment. The Jordan Foundation continues its unwavering support by covering school fees and providing essential scholastic materials. Additionally, parents are assisted with farming projects to secure a livelihood, and healthcare expenses are covered through the Mutuelle de Santé programme.

Isimbi shed light on the harsh reality faced by these children, often mistreated and viewed as 'curses' by their parents. In response, the foundation organises events that simulate the visual challenges faced by their children, inviting psychologists to foster understanding and encourage love and care.

The foundation goes a step further by inviting successful individuals with visual impairments, including teachers, journalists, and members of parliament, to inspire parents and emphasise the potential for a bright future with the right support.

However, amidst the celebratory spirit, the Jordan Foundation grapples with increased challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the challenges persist during Post-Covid-19 period, making donors' and partners' resource procurement an uphill task. Advocacy is now more crucial than ever, as there are countless visually impaired children yet to be reached.

The call to action is clear: the Jordan Foundation seeks support from both public and private institutions, urging those willing to champion the cause of these vulnerable children to join hands. As they continue to navigate adversity, the foundation remains steadfast in its mission to illuminate the lives of visually impaired children, reminding us all that love, support, and the right education can transform their futures.

In 2015, Vanessa Bahati, a 34-year-old Rwandan woman, experienced an unexpected twist in her life journey. Blessed with her third son, she was overjoyed until the revelation that he was born with total visual impairment. The news was devastating, sparking uncertainty about the future and a quest for solutions that took Bahati across continents.

Determined to provide the best for her son, she embarked on a journey, seeking medical advice worldwide. However, the harsh reality hit her — her son's visual impairment was irreversible. Faced with the challenge, Bahati chose love and care as the only options. This experience became the catalyst for a remarkable initiative.

Upon returning to Rwanda, Bahati delved into the lives of other blind children in her country. Witnessing the struggles of marginalised communities, rural societies, and impoverished families, she recognised the urgent need for a support system. In response, the Jordan Foundation was born at the end of 2015, named after her son, Jordan.

Operating with a mission to aid visually impaired children from poor families, the foundation began its work. Despite limited resources, they focused on providing medical care, combating malnutrition, and supporting families through small farming projects. Bahati's vision expanded as the foundation grew, now caring for over 150 children which can even increase over time.

The foundation's impact extends beyond immediate care, as they buy medical insurance for families and empower them through various means. However, the demand for assistance far surpasses their current capacity. Bahati envisions a future where the Jordan Foundation accommodates 400 blind children from the poorest families across the country.

Currently undertaking construction projects, the foundation plans to establish schools, dormitories, a modern kitchen, and a refectory. The constructions are now in Phase II, and after the constructions, the foundation will become a core solution for families who struggled to find schools for their children with the same disabilities, and again the foundation will be home to all families without any consideration of social class.

Bahati's plea for moral support and prayers emphasises the crucial role society can play in breaking down discrimination and prejudice against visually impaired children.

With a powerful call to action — join Bahati in creating a brighter future for blind children. While they may not restore sight, together, we can provide hope, love, and a path to a fulfilling life. The Jordan Foundation stands as a testament to one woman's determination to turn personal adversity into a beacon of hope for those who need it most.

Whoever wants to join the Jordan Foundation cause can visit us on our different platforms:

X: @JordanFou_Rw

Instagram: jordan_foundation_

Facebook: Jordan Foundation

And we are also reachable at +250 788 304 719 (WhatsApp) and +250 785 939 539 for calls.