WAKJIRA’S STORY
Wakjira before his surgery.
Wakjira is a 15 month old baby born with a cleft lip in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. Wakjira’s mother brought him to Ambo Referal Hospital after learning about our treatment programme from the Oromia Broadcasting Network on social media. Every aspect of the treatment is free for the family including transportation, accommodation and food. Wakjira’s father is a farmer, the family would not be able to afford the journey to the hospital, let alone the treatment.
Wakjira’s mother expressed her gratitude towards Project Harar, stating:
“They have helped us receive all the necessary treatment,
and I am truly unable to put into words how happy I am.”
Wakjira with his Mother and twin
People in the village always stared at Wakjira and commented on his cleft condition. This took an emotional toll on Wakjira’s mother. His mother expressed her deep appreciation for Project Harar. She said they received a‘beautiful service’ that ensured her child had exceptional care.
A few months later, Wakjira came to Ethio Tebib Hospital in Addis Ababa for cleft palate treatment following his cleft lip operation at Ambo Referral Hospital.
“I hope that more individuals, especially those facing challenges with facial differences, lack of resources and information in rural areas, will receive this
life-changing treatment.”
This second surgery was crucial for Wakjira to be able to feed well and get enough nutrition for growth, like his twin brother. The Project Harar team met Wakjira and his family during their second visit to the hospital. We met Wakjira’s mother, his twin brother, and his older sister (9 years old). We learned that the family had two other children at home. We discovered the meaning of Wakjira’s name is, “This is God,” while his twin brother’s name means “Her God.”
Wakjira one day after surgery with his older sister.
Wakjira’s sister has been unable to go to school because she has been helping her mother look after Wakjira and his twin brother. Now that Wakjira has had treatment, caring for him will be much easier. His sister will now be able to start school next year. Wakjira’s treatment has reduced the stigma that he and his family faced from their community, bringing the them much happiness and freedom.