In January 2020 we traveled to Kigali, 6.203 km linear distance away from Koblenz. Impressions we were allowed to collect during our stay in the capital of Rwanda were overwhelming in so many ways. When we set off with a few donations in our luggage to actively support Christine Mukeshimana’s physiotherapy-oriented help-for-self-help project, we looked forward to the weeks ahead. At this point in time, we had absolutely no idea that our expectations were to be exceeded by far – in positive terms.

When we arrived in Rwanda, we were welcomed with open arms and warm African hospitality. Right at the beginning of our stay, we integrated ourselves into the course of the center. The focus was on the therapy of the children. Together with the mothers, we developed self-help strategies and therapy options beyond the care in the center. We were able to overcome the language barrier in a playful way.

In addition to the physiotherapeutic therapies, we were lucky enough to take part in the remedial teachings for children with poor learning or who are financially underprivileged and to integrate into them. Together with a Canadian volunteer, we designed the support of the children 3 days a week. We have also succeeded in putting some additional design to the center. With skilled craftsmanship, Florian was able to build a fence and privacy screen around the meadow connected to the center. Christine recently rented this piece of land to give the children the opportunity to exercise physically between therapies.

Furthermore, we were able to repair the defective cooking site, stuffed holes in walls and floors of the center. We sealed the wooden bridge, which was subject to vegetation in several places, with concrete. We painted the toilet house with animals and made it inviting for the children. In addition, we have attached a height scale that enables the children to measure themselves. This caused a great rush, because the children so far never had the chance to determine their own height. We purchased missing and scarce materials such as diapers, drinks, pots, soap, buckets and many other items for the center.

It was particularly important to us to replace the massively damaged therapy mats in order to make the therapy as comfortable and hygienic as possible for the children. This is an important prerequisite for successful therapy, especially for immunosuppressive children.

Three of the “center-kids” we were able to pay the school fees for 3 years. After we had bought additional school materials such as books, school uniforms and pens, we were able to make their dream of attending a proper school come true.

After the weeks of our stay, it was incredibly difficult to say goodbye to the children and mothers. We have included them deep in our hearts. It didn’t always take a lot of words to laugh together. We learned a lot from each other and benefited from each other. The stay enriched us more than we can express and we are very happy to keep a piece of Rwanda in our hearts