In the aftermath of Sierra Leone’s devastating civil war, many amputees continue to face discrimination and hardship. Lahai Makieu, a resilient survivor who lost his leg during the conflict, is now cultivating hope through farming. At a center near Freetown, he and other amputees are learning agricultural skills to build their own businesses and reclaim their independence.
Led by Mambud Samai, a former refugee turned pastor, the Farming on Crutches initiative is sowing seeds of change. Through training sessions on organic farming techniques and sustainable practices, participants like Makieu are not only growing crops but also nurturing dreams for a better future. For Makieu, this journey has brought more than just agricultural knowledge – it led him to love and family as he met his wife during the training.
While some like Makieu have found solace in agriculture, the majority of amputees in Sierra Leone still struggle with societal stigma and lack of support. Alimany Kani, despite holding a master’s degree, faces job discrimination due to his disability. Calls for government reparations and assistance remain largely unanswered, leaving many feeling abandoned by the promises made after the war.
As initiatives like Farming on Crutches strive to empower marginalized communities, challenges persist in securing necessary resources and governmental backing. While foreign aid plays a role in supporting these endeavors, local investment is crucial for long-term sustainability and growth. Amidst setbacks and unfulfilled pledges, stories of resilience like that of Amara and Moustapha Jalloh remind us that even in adversity, there can be seeds of success waiting to bloom into inspiring tales of triumph against all odds.
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