God’s miracle: How Tanzania’s children with disabilities are finding hope at centre in Singida

Sr. Ernestina Patrick Lasway SAC – Vatican City.

Sr. Rosemary Ombay joined the Pallottine Sisters responding to God’s call, and although she first hoped to become a nurse, she was led instead to serve in occupational therapy, which she embraced with trust in God. As the assistant director at Siuyu Rehabilitation Centre in Singida, Tanzania, she provides care to children with disabilities.

For over 15 years, Sr. Rosemary has been overseeing the centre's operations and ensuring activities run efficiently and effectively. She coordinates care and services for children, promoting inclusive education by helping them learn alongside their peers without disabilities.

I am because we are

In the Singida region, children born with disabilities are often regarded as a misfortune. Many families keep them out of the public eye. The establishment of the rehabilitation centre has helped transform this situation by enabling access to primary and secondary education at nearby schools.

This is fostering inclusion and empowerment, with several beneficiaries progressing to professional careers in teaching, accounting, and law. Studying with non-disabled children gives them a sense of belonging in the community.

Empowering children

Tanzania: Siuyu Rehabilitation Centre

“My aim is to support children with disabilities and guide parents in continued appreciation of their children at home, even as I work with the children at the centre,” explained Sr. Rosemary.

Some children reside at the Centre. Others, especially those under 6 years, live with their families and, due to limited resources, attend physiotherapy sessions twice a week.

Sr. Rosemary expresses great joy in seeing children make progress and gain independence. Many arrive at the Centre unable to walk. With sustained physiotherapy and support, they gradually improve and return home on their feet.

They are very grateful, even eager, to do small chores at the centre, while proving that “disability is not inability.

Work within a community

After 15 years at Siuyu Rehabilitation Centre, Sr Rosemary finds the work demanding. Yet, she says it is also transformative. Community perceptions viewing disability as misfortune initially discouraged families from seeking support.

The centre grew from an initial enrolment of 6 children in 2017 to over 60 by 2026, with children coming from Singida and beyond.

Recognising that many children with disabilities remain hidden at home, Sr. Rosemary launched a training programme for a group of women who assist during physiotherapy sessions. These trained women play a vital role in educating parents within the community on how to provide proper care and support for their children.

This initiative has proven to be a significant blessing, especially in the Singida region, where therapists have dedicated their efforts to fostering ongoing positive change.

"I am deeply touched by the children and learn a lot from them. I admire their love and total dedication as they assist one another in every way possible," Sr. Rosemary added.