The Masvingo Warriors
Growing up with a chronic illness brings with it many challenges. That is why 60 children and young people have come together at Camp Mukundi in Zimbabwe to come to terms with their conditions. The experience involved far more than just medical knowledge.
Children in orange T-shirts are jumping about on the lawn of the Alfred Walter Hostel in Masvingo. A discussion is taking place in the shade of a tree; fresh paint is drying on a table tennis bat; next to it, young people are posing with medals for a souvenir photo. At first glance, it all looks like an ordinary holiday camp. Yet the 60 participants are united by more than just a week spent together at the camp.
These young people live with type 1 diabetes, sickle cell anaemia or congenital or rheumatic heart disease. Medication, doctor’s appointments and taking responsibility for their own health are part of their everyday lives. That is why they are called ‘Warriors’ here. The camp’s name reflects this idea: Mukundi means ‘winner’, ‘champion’ or ‘fighter’ in Shona. This does not refer to the battle against a single illness, but to the daily struggle with the challenges it brings.
Coping with everyday life
From 17 to 21 August, the Warriors gathered in Masvingo Province. The camp was organised by the Zimbabwean Ministry of Health in collaboration with SolidarMed and other partner organisations.
The focus was on how young people with chronic illnesses can take control of their daily lives. The participants therefore not only learnt the basics about their conditions, but also acquired practical skills for everyday life: How do I adjust my insulin dose? How do I recognise warning signs? What do I need to bear in mind after heart surgery?
Alongside medical knowledge, the programme also centred on issues that shape daily life with a chronic illness. The young people discussed nutrition, mental health, stigma and the transition to adulthood. They were encouraged to share their own experiences, ask questions and learn from one another.
Standing up for themselves
Another key focus was on empowering the Warriors to become more independent. In advocacy workshops, they explored their needs and challenges. They discussed what changes they would like to see and how they can champion their causes.
The young people were encouraged to take responsibility for their own health and to make their voices heard. After all, when you understand your condition, you can make decisions with greater confidence and play an active role in shaping your own life.
Being a Warrior
As well as the workshops, there was also time for sport, art and shared experiences. Team challenges, such as building a Jenga tower, called for dexterity and teamwork. The indoor sports day focused on games and physical activity, whilst art therapy provided the young people with a space to express themselves creatively. The shared activities created opportunities for interaction and helped the young people to get to know one another beyond their diagnoses.
After five days, the camp came to an end. The Warriors returned home with new knowledge about their conditions and the experience of being part of a community of like-minded people.
