Changing lives of vulnerable people in Kitwe and beyond.

By Richard Katebe

Kitwe Hearing Charity, operating as Zambian Hearing Disability Improvement Project (ZAHDIP), is making a significant impact on the lives of people with hearing loss in Kitwe, Zambia. In a country where hearing loss is a major contributor to children dropping out of school early, this organisation is playing a vital role in providing free testing and hearing aids to those in need.

Hearing loss is a prevalent issue in Zambia, with an official estimate of 6% of the population affected. In Kitwe, a city with a population of 756,000 people, approximately 45,000 individuals are believed to be experiencing hearing loss. Unfortunately, many of these individuals do not have access to essential testing and hearing aid services, as the nearest facilities with these resources are located in Ndola.

Arthur Davison’s Children’s Hospital and the Ndola Teaching Hospital are the primary testing centres for hearing loss in the region. However, the costs associated with testing and fitting hearing aids at these institutions often exceed the financial means of vulnerable individuals and their families.

Kitwe Hearing Charity has stepped in to bridge this gap in accessibility by partnering with Nkana East Urban Clinic to provide testing services and hearing aids to those in need. One such beneficiary of this valuable service is Bonaventure Bwalya, a 27-year-old who experienced hearing loss at the age of 17 in 2017.

A ray of hope for Bonaventure Bwalya

Bonaventure’s hearing loss began when he noticed a discharge in both of his ears for the first time. This discharge significantly affected his ability to hear, eventually leading him to drop out of school. As his hearing deteriorated, he found it increasingly difficult to follow the instructions provided by his teachers.

In an attempt to cope with his hearing loss, Bonaventure would frequently ask his teachers to speak louder and repeat instructions. Unfortunately, this led to frustration among both his fellow students and teachers. Bonaventure was subjected to taunts and derogatory remarks from his peers, making it an emotionally challenging time for him. In addition to the social struggles, he also faced disciplinary actions from teachers who didn’t understand the extent of his hearing loss.

However, thanks to the support of Kitwe Hearing Charity and their partnership with Nkana East Urban Clinic, Bonaventure was able to undergo testing and receive a hearing aid. This transformational intervention has not only improved his hearing but also restored his confidence and allowed him to reintegrate into his community and pursue his education once again.

The work of Kitwe Hearing Charity is changing lives and making a positive impact on the community by addressing the pressing issue of hearing loss in Kitwe. With their dedication to providing free testing and hearing aids, they are helping individuals like Bonaventure Bwalya overcome the barriers associated with hearing loss and regain their independence and dignity. Kitwe Hearing Charity’s efforts are indeed a testament to the power of compassion and community support in creating a more inclusive society.

VISIT THE ZAHDIP WEBSITE:

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KITWE HEARING CHARITY CONTACT DETAILS

Nkana East Urban Clinic
Plot No.8584,
Central Street Off 20th Street,
Behind Esther Lungu Police Post.

Phone: + 260 97 3421240 to book an appointment.

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