Feb 20 • 07:35 UTC 🌍 Africa AllAfrica

Rwanda: How One Child Refugee's Journey Changed Hearing Care in Rwanda

Selva Nesar, a child refugee from Afghanistan, inspired the launch of Rwanda's cochlear implant program, transforming the country's approach to inclusive hearing healthcare.

When Selva Nesar and her family fled from Afghanistan to Rwanda, Selva's life was marked by complete deafness, a circumstance that severely limited her opportunities. Amidst the challenges of adapting to a new country after escaping the Taliban regime, she was introduced to life-changing medical interventions after becoming the first child in Rwanda to receive cochlear implant surgery. This significant event not only opened the door to sound for Selva but also sparked a national dialogue on hearing healthcare in the country.

The introduction of cochlear implants in Rwanda represents a crucial shift towards inclusive healthcare practices, particularly focusing on the needs of children with hearing impairments. Selva's journey highlights the potential for transformative healthcare solutions that can significantly improve the quality of life for children who face similar barriers. The government's initiative to establish a sustainable cochlear implant program aims to ensure that children from all backgrounds have access to vital hearing care, thus integrating them more fully into society.

Rwanda is now positioning itself as a leader in the field of hearing healthcare in Africa, using Selva's inspiring story to advocate for greater awareness and accessibility of healthcare services. The implications of this development extend beyond just medical treatment; they provoke broader discussions about the rights of children with disabilities, the importance of inclusive policies, and the societal responsibilities towards marginalized communities. Selva Nesar's story is not just one of personal triumph; it is a call to action for making Rwanda a more inclusive society for all people with hearing impairments.

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