Clemensia Makongoro: A Journey of Resilience and Renewal

Clemensia Makongoro: A Journey of Resilience and Renewal

Clemensia Makongoro, a resident of Mtukula village in Bukombe district, Geita region, has endured a challenging 20-year battle with obstetric fistula. Her story is one of profound hardship, perseverance, and ultimate triumph, serving as an inspiration to her community and beyond.

In 2004, while giving birth to her third child, Clemensia’s life took a drastic turn. Labor pains began early in the morning, but due to a lack of transportation, she faced a harrowing delay in reaching the hospital. By the time she arrived at noon, her condition had worsened significantly. Unable to deliver naturally, doctors used instruments to extract the baby safely. However, the delivery left Clemensia with severe injuries, resulting in uncontrollable urine leakage.

“Initially, the leakage was minimal, and my husband offered support and understanding, But by 2005, the condition worsened, straining our relationship”. said Clemensia. Clemensia’s husband eventually required extensive care and was later transferred to another region for treatment, leaving her to care for their children alone.

For 20 years, Clemensia lived in isolation and despair. She tried traditional remedies for healing but without success, and her hope for recovery slowly faded. Out of fear of embarrassment, she avoided social gatherings and community events, which only increased her loneliness. To support her family, she started making clay pots, earning a modest income that helps to sustain her household.

In 2024, Clemensia’s story took a transformative turn. Her family heard an announcement on Kwizera Radio Station about free fistula treatment at Bugando Hospital, encouraged by her loved ones, Clemensia decided to seek help. In May, Clemensia traveled to Bugando Hospital and underwent a life-changing treatment. By June, she was discharged, completely healed.

For the first time in 20 years, she experienced freedom from the pain and stigma of suffering from fistula. Three months later, Clemensia returned to Mwanza for entrepreneurial training, choosing goat farming as her business venture. This opportunity not only provided her with a sustainable source of income but also restored her sense of purpose and dignity.

Her journey didn’t stop there. Clemensia became a passionate advocate for fistula awareness in her village. In August, she identified a survivor who had lived with fistula for 20 years, guiding her to also receive treatment at Bugando Hospital. “I am deeply grateful and overjoyed to have regained my health and happiness. Every moment now feels like a gift, and I cherish the chance to live fully once again.” said Clemensia

Clemensia’s story is a beacon of hope, proving that change is always possible, even after years of hardship. Through her advocacy and determination, Clemensia has turned her personal struggle into a source of strength for others, inspiring a brighter future for her community.

The Fistula Project is funded by an anonymous donor through Amref Health Africa UK and in partnership with the Government of Tanzania, Amref Health Africa Tanzania, Magu Poverty Focus on Older People Rehabilitation Centre (MAPERECE), CCBRT, and Bugando Medical Centre (BMC), aims to reach all fistula survivors in Mwanza and Geita regions