Nosipho’s Story | Support for Girls with Disabilities in Eswatini

In a remote rural area of Eswatini, we met Nosipho (name changed for privacy), a young girl living with both physical and cognitive disabilities. Bedridden and dependent on others for all her needs, Nosipho's early life has been marked by both medical hardship and heartbreaking trauma.

With the help of a compassionate orthopedic surgeon, Purple Industries arranged for surgery on her legs, with the hope that she might one day be able to sit upright in a wheelchair. But just as she began her recovery, Nosipho was assaulted by a family member’s partner.

Though the crime was reported and taken to court, the perpetrator was released on bail and returned to harm her again. Since then, Nosipho’s relatives have been doing everything they can to keep her safe, often taking turns hiding her while her case slowly moves through the justice system.

Throughout all of this, Purple Industries has remained by her side, delivering nappies, clothing, food, and transport for her ongoing medical needs. Nosipho still faces enormous challenges, but her resilience continues to shine. She sings Gospel songs with joy when we visit, a reminder that even in the darkest places, there is light.

Nosipho’s journey is one of courage, survival, and hope. It reflects the deep and urgent need for support for girls with disabilities in Eswatini, especially those facing violence, poverty, and medical neglect.

*This image is not of Nosipho