In 2002, Sarah Rejman travelled to Tanzania to work as an occupational therapist at a rehabilitation center for people living with disabilities. The two formative years that followed awakened in her a mission to improve the lives of children living with treatable disabilities by creating a safe and happy home where they would be accepted, loved, valued, and have the opportunity to heal. Thus began the Plaster House, as Kafika House was originally known.

Today, Kafika House is an international NGO working in partnership with the Tanzanian government to treat children, transform communities and challenge perceptions of disabilities at a national level. Following a period of growth, Kafika House has also recently expanded from working with one local hospital to five partner hospitals that provide surgeries and aftercare for children.

In this fantastic episode, join Anubha Rawat in conversation with Sarah as they discuss the unique approach and impact of Kafika House, and the importance of holistic, community-driven health programs. For Sarah, addressing treatable disabilities goes far beyond physical medical care. Instead, it must also be about wider education and challenging far-reaching stigmas. It is also vital to involve and support both the parents and wider community, such as Kafika House’s parallel “Mamas Education Program”, which provides an opportunity for the Mamas to simultaneously learn about nutrition, first aid, horticulture and microfinance, alongside their child’s medical care.

Finally, Sarah also delves into how deep-rooted partnerships, fostering a sense of local ownership, and working with health ministries are crucial factors in determining the success and sustainability of medical programs, particularly in an international development context. For those interested in community-led health, children’s health, disability support or international development - this is not an episode to miss!

Find out more about Kafika House here.

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