Every Challenge Carries The Potential For Greatness

In this article Maali Wilson outlines the birth of his son, Kihembo, which led to the foundation of RAPCD.

Kihembo’s life and current role as an advocate for disabled people is an inspiration to all of us.

The story of the birth of Kihembo, the inspiration behind founding RAPCD

After a prolonged labour baby boy is born on 26 June 1999 and with happiness of success of receiving the baby alive, the boy is named Kihembo – Gift in English.

Hours later we realized the baby could not suck milk with strength as babies do and a few days later we further realized that the baby was too simple.

The simple nature continued and we thought that was normal until months went by and we started realizing some development gaps such as floppy neck, failure to stand and constant saliva flows. This is the time we realized Kihembo was impaired and this was already two years.

We began taking him for regular therapy sessions, determined to give him the best possible care. It was during these hospital visits and consultations that we started meeting other parents of children with disabilities. Their struggles mirrored our own, and I began to think: What if we created a space where we could come together, support one another, and advocate for our children? This idea stayed with me, but it wasn’t until I met Rebecca, that the dream started taking shape. With Accomplish’s support and encouragement, the organization my wife and I founded, the Rwenzori Association of Parents of Children with Disabilities (RAPCD) grew and developed. This organization became a lifeline not just for our family, but for many others who felt isolated in their struggles.

Meanwhile, Kihembo continued to amaze us. At five years old, he took his first steps. Though each step was a challenge, his determination was unshakable. He had a deep love for learning and insisted on following his mother to the school where she taught. His enthusiasm sparked another idea within us: we decided to start a school tailored to the needs of children with disabilities. Over time, this dream became a reality, and we were able to establish both primary and secondary schools that provided inclusive education for children like Kihembo.

Watching my son grow and thrive despite his challenges has been the greatest privilege of my life. He worked hard in school, eventually earning a diploma in Computer Science from the International University of East Africa. Today, he is pursuing his bachelors degree, and I couldn’t be prouder of the young man he has become.

In recent years, Kihembo has taken on a new role as an advocate for persons with disabilities. As a youth representative for the Commonwealth Disabled People's Forum (CDPF), he has travelled to countries I could only dream of, speaking at global events like the UN COSP in New York and the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa. He has used these platforms to amplify the voices of people with disabilities.

Looking back on our journey, I am reminded of those early days in the hospital, the moments of fear and uncertainty that once overshadowed our joy. Today, that fragile baby boy has grown into a beacon of hope, resilience, and inspiration—not just for us as his parents, but for families and communities around the world.

Kihembo is living proof that every challenge comes with the potential for greatness. His life has taught me the power of perseverance, the importance of community, and the incredible strength that lies within the human spirit. As his father, I am endlessly grateful to have been part of this journey and to see the impact of his life unfold in ways we could never have imagined.

Every child is a child and every child is a gift. Disability doesn’t disqualify a child from being a gift to his parents.

Love to a child with disability is therapy, hope, confidence and a blessing.