Mgeni Njoo Mwenyeji Aponе:Eliana’s Journey from Struggle to Support

By Hellen Njoroge

When Seline Awour heard about the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) outreach in partnership with the M-Pesa Foundation happening at St lwanga primary and junior school Changamwe Mombasa, she did not hesitate. Like many mothers carrying quiet hopes for their children, she decided to arrive early so her daughter could be assessed.

Six-year-old Eliana Akinyi, Seline’s second-born, was born with spina bifida. From the moment of her birth, life took a different turn. At just two weeks old, Eliana underwent corrective surgery on her head and spinal cord the beginning of a long journey marked by hospital visits, therapy sessions, and constant caregiving. For Seline, the journey of meeting Eliana’s every need has been one of deep patience, resilience, and unwavering love.

That morning, Seline expected the day to be like any other appointment she had taken her daughter to. They arrived, registered, and patiently waited for their turn, unaware that this day would unfold differently from all the others.

When they were ushered into the KISE assessment truck, Seline shared Eliana’s medical history with the team of assessors. Throughout the process, Eliana was all smiles bubbly, playful, and curious. Within just a few minutes of interaction, the team learned that her cheerful spirit was not a momentary mood but her natural character. Despite the challenges she faces, Eliana’s joy shines through effortlessly.

Spina bifida is a congenital condition that occurs when the spine and spinal cord do not develop properly during early pregnancy. This results in an opening in the backbone, which can affect the nerves and lead to physical challenges such as weakness or paralysis of the legs, difficulty with mobility, and issues with bladder and bowel control. The severity of the condition varies from child to child, and with early medical intervention, many children can lead meaningful and productive lives.it is a condition that requires continuous care and support. Children living with it often need physiotherapy, mobility aids such as wheelchairs, regular medical follow-ups, and inclusive educational support. With the right interventions and encouragement, they can thrive and live fulfilling lives. For caregivers like Seline, access to these services can make all the difference easing both the physical and emotional demands of care.

As Seline and Eliana prepared to conclude their assessment and leave, unexpected excitement rippled through the outreach site. Word spread quickly that H.E. the Governor of Mombasa County, Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir, accompanied by Changamwe MP Omar Mwinyi, had arrived. The leaders made their way to the assessment truck, where they met Eliana, her mother Seline, and Winfred Muhia -Eliana’s godmother and a passionate disability rights activist.

After listening to Eliana’s story and engaging warmly with her and her caregivers, H.E. the Governor made a profound gesture of compassion. He adopted Eliana, pledging to support her physiotherapy needs, provide a wheelchair, and take care of her education. It was a moment that left everyone present deeply moved.

There is a Swahili saying: “Mgeni njoo mwenyeji apone” - when a guest arrives, the host is healed. In that moment, the weight Seline had carried single-handedly for years began to lift. The burden of worry, the uncertainty of tomorrow, and the quiet struggles of caregiving were eased by kindness, leadership, and shared responsibility.

For Seline and Eliana, it was more than just an outreach day. It was a day of hope renewed, of compassion in action, and of reassurance that they are not alone. As they left, hearts were full a reminder of the power of community, partnership, and humanity coming together. It was another win for the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) in reaching people with special needs through community-based outreach and For Seline and Eliana, it was truly a very good day.