“What’s your name?” I ask while gently smiling at the eight year old boy. He remains silent. After a little while he mentions the name of the quranic teacher where he lives. It has been two years since his parents sent him to this boarding school for him to study the Qur’an. It is a respected religious decision, though it often means the parents won’t see their children ever again. The education and care are now entrusted to the teacher who does not always have the means to do so. Often the young students are sent out on the streets to beg. Poor hygiene makes that the boys get all different kinds of diseases. In this case a group of 85 children has been affected by scabies.
When the first patient arrived at the clinic Keru Yakaar we immediately contacted the local government to collaborate to treat all the boys in the Daara for scabies and a number of other diseases. In addition, we could give them a set of new clothes and shoes. When dealing with scabies it is important to keep a big cleaning first and treat everyone in the house at once. Otherwise the small animal will not be eradicated. The disease is known for its intense itch, especially at night. This causes insomnia, and often leads to infected scratch wounds. Treating the disease is something we can do for these boys who grow up in a difficult situation.
The collaboration of a whole network of people made the day extra special. In addition to a team from the clinic, community health workers, government nurses and even the mayor were involved. This type of cooperation is not evident and is a fruit of years of investing in relationships. Thanks to the trust that has been built, we are able to support these boys from our various positions in society; standing shoulder to shoulder against this injustice.
