A life saved: Joan Nambumba’s journey from isolation to hope

30 November 2025, 11:40 am

By Byamukama Alozious

In a small village in Kireka, Luweero, 15-year-old Joan Nambumba was born with epilepsy, a condition that has significantly affected her life. Abandoned by her parents, Vincent Senoga and an unknown mother, Joan was taken in by her 70-year-old grandmother, Jesca Nasimbwa, and her aunt, Rosely Nanteza.

The community believed Joan was bewitched, and her family sought help from traditional healers and herbal remedies, but these efforts proved futile. Instead, they were exploited, and their resources depleted. By the age of two, Joan was left to fend for herself while her family struggled.

Earlier this year, 2025, following advocacy by Mama FM and Every Child Ministries, Joan was taken to Bombo Army Barracks Hospital and later to Butabika National Referral Hospital, where she is now receiving treatment. Rabina Nanfuka, a children’s host at Mama FM 101.7, met Joan and championed her care.

“I’m happy that I was able to save her life,” Nanfuka said. “She could have lost it if we hadn’t intervened. She has regained her health and can now walk and manage small tasks.”

Rosely Nanteza, Joan’s aunt, expressed her gratitude to Mama FM and Every Child Ministries for their support. “We are deeply thankful to Mama FM and Every Child Ministries for stepping in and saving our child from the harmful practices of traditional healers. Our family was exploited and even had to sell land in search of help. Their intervention has made a world of difference.”

Joan’s journey highlights the challenges faced by children with disabilities in Uganda and underscores the importance of community support. Nanfuka urges parents to love and care for their children, particularly those with special needs, and to seek medical attention promptly.

“I wish I had seen this child earlier; she could have attended school,” Nanfuka said. “The doctors say her brain may not function fully, but we are working to improve her situation.”

Every Child Ministries Uganda is supporting Joan with nutritious food and mental health support. Resty Nakaliisa Kawalya, coordinator of the Special Needs Programme, said they are providing cereals, sugar, and other essentials to assist Joan and her grandmother.

“Joan’s story is a testament to the power of community and advocacy. With the right support, she can lead a fulfilling life and achieve her full potential.”