GATSIBO — Parents in Gatsibo District have been advised to always seek timely treatment for children living with physical disabilities.

Mediatrice Mukasharangabo, the founder of Wikwiheba Mwana, a centre charged with caring for and treating children with disabilities in the district, made the call on Monday.

Speaking to journalists, Mukasharangabo said that she founded the centre after realizing that many parents were neglecting the children.

"…Most parents had refused to bring their children here out of ignorance. But now, after carrying out mass sensitization, a positive impact has been realized,” she said.

Mukasharangabo says most of the children brought to the centre have since been treated and discharged.

Afua Musabende, whose child received treatment, commended the centre for its work, adding that she has since became an advocate for other parents with children having such problems to make use of the centre.

The centre cares for over 300 children with various forms of disabilities, where they also get access to education. 
Ilidephonse Munyankumburwa, one of the children undergoing treatment says he has been doing well academically.

‘I am doing well in class…even teachers and parents treat me well,’ he said.

Under Tubakunde platform, Wikwiheba Mwana centre was started in 2007 and is financed by a consortium of NGOs including Handcap International and Rwinkwavu Hospital in the Eastern Province.

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