Building Hope in a Refugee Camp: Martin Abumba’s Story

Content note: The following article contains mature references to hardships faced by refugees.

My name is Martin Abumba Mkyambe, I was born in 1996 in Fizi, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the youngest of ten children. I was healthy until the age of three, when I contracted poliomyelitis, a serious illness that left my right leg paralyzed.

At that time, my country was in the midst of a civil war, which made it extremely difficult for my parents to access proper medical care for me. They decided to send me to live with one of my brothers in Sebele, a small town with a local dispensary. My parents visited me regularly and ensured that I received the medication I needed. Thanks to their dedication and sacrifice, I was eventually able to walk again, although with a limp. 

My parents also used their limited resources to make sure I received an

education. Despite my disability, they wanted me to grow up independent. I began primary school in 1999 and completed it in 2004. In 2005, I started secondary school, but the ongoing conflict forced us to flee the country.

Resilience in Kakuma Refugee Camp

My family arrived in Kenya, where the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) resettled us in Kakuma Refugee Camp. Life in the camp was challenging. However, in 2011, I was awarded a scholarship from the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) to complete my secondary education outside the camp. I enrolled at Nalondo CBM Secondary School, where I took additional English courses to help me catch up academically. I also actively participated in extracurricular activities, including sports,

music, and the scout club.

Unfortunately, my scholarship was terminated before I could complete my studies. Despite this setback, I remain deeply grateful to everyone who supported my education. Their support inspired me to establish my own organization, Bidii Yetu for Change. 

Founded in 2019, Bidii Yetu for Change, aims to build hope and resilience within refugee communities. I am passionate about supporting others who have faced challenges similar to mine. I strongly believe that education is the foundation of a better future, and I am committed to creating opportunities that enable refugees to reach their full potential.

Recent Challenges: The Impact of USAID Cuts

This past year has been especially difficult. Funding reductions from major international donors, including USAID, had caused serious adverse effects across the camp. These cuts have led to low food rations and reduced education and child support programs.

Because of reduced food rations for families, many children come to school hungry. In household food categorization (Levels 1–4), many families were placed in category 4, no longer receiving food assistance from the World Food Programme. And this led to malnutrition and so many cases of theft out of desperation. Many of our youths have engaged in drug abuse, with both young girls and boys also engaging sexually with older people.

Some organizations have had to scale down or close activities in education and child support programs. This has increased stress on families, leading to higher risks of child labor, early marriage, and school dropouts. For organizations like BYC, it has become harder to secure resources for basic learning materials, nutrition support, and safe spaces for children. Yet the needs have not decreased, they have increased.

Projects We’ve Successfully Completed

• Child Art Therapy Class

Through its Psychosocial Support Program, Bidii Yetu for Change has implemented a Child Art Therapy Class for children aged 6–14 years. This initiative helps children explore their emotions and develop self-expression through drawing, painting, music, singing, and storytelling. It also serves as a platform for identifying and nurturing talents. This project is made possible through the support of dedicated donors, friends and well-wishers. Read how MST students collaborated with this program.

• Tree Nursery

Under its Environmental Management Program, Bidii Yetu for Change established a tree nursery to promote reforestation and climate action within Kakuma. Thousands of trees have been grown and distributed to both the community and partner organizations. This initiative is proudly supported by well-wishers committed to environmental sustainability.

• Maria Montessori Pre-School of Kakuma

As part of its Education Program, Bidii Yetu for Change successfully established the Maria Montessori Pre-School to provide free early childhood education to children in Kakuma Refugee Camp. With the generous support of donors, children receive foundational learning along with free daily meals, improving both their educational and nutritional well-being. Read about MST teachers reaching out to BYC teachers.

• Computer Lab

Thanks to generous funding from Caroline, Bidii Yetu for Change has successfully constructed a Computer Lab to enhance digital literacy and access to technology for youth and learners in Kakuma. This facility empowers the community with essential 21st-century skills.

• School Latrine Facility

In partnership with MST Japan, Bidii Yetu for Change constructed a latrine facility to improve sanitation and hygiene within its operational space. This contribution significantly enhances the dignity, safety, and health standards of the community it serves.

Current Projects That Need Support

The needs in Kakuma remain great, and BYC is working hard to respond. We are currently seeking support for:

• Learning Materials

Exercise books, pens, textbooks, and school furniture for example table, cabinet chairs and many others, for the teachers and learners remain out of reach for BYC.

• Safe Creative Spaces for Children

We aim to expand art, play, and life-skills sessions that give children a safe place to learn, express themselves, and build hope for the future.

• Youth Skills and Empowerment

Young people in the camp need practical skills and mentorship to prepare for independent futures. Training in life skills, leadership, and small income-generating activities is a key priority.

• Tree Nursery and Permaculture Program

This program needs funding to remain sustainable and to strengthen climate resilience and food security through environmentally friendly practices, since no more food to some of the families in Kakuma.

Bidii Yetu for Change continues to believe that even in the most difficult circumstances, communities have strength, talent, and hope. With continued partnership and support, we can help children and families in Kakuma Refugee Camp not only to survive, but to grow, learn, and thrive.

Martin Abumba

Director of Bidii Yetu for Change