VOICES FROM THE FIELD: Lisa Inks in Sierra Leone

Mohamed Massaquoi, Chair of the Amputee and War-Wounded Association, relies on the community radio to deliver messages to his fellow amputees throughout Pujehun District. He is pictured here with his son.

The Amputee and War-Wounded Association: Helping Survivors Keep Surviving

In Pujehun District, where the civil war in Sierra Leone began more than 18 years ago, the effects of fighting are still written on the bodies of hundreds of survivors. Amputee Mohamed Massaquoi knows as well as anyone how war can continue to devastate families long after the peace accord has been signed. As Chair of the Amputee and War-Wounded Association for Pujehun District, Massaquoi advocates for many of the hardest-hit families, most of whom live in “amputee camps” that were built by the government following the war’s end around 2002.

In order to perform his duties as Chair, Massaquoi relies entirely on community radio to mobilize amputees around the district. Support from the government has ceased, so he looks to outside organizations for help; finding work and food remains a daily challenge for the amputee community. When the association does receive food, building materials, or other support from NGOs, Massaquoi goes to the radio to announce a pick-up time and location. When the association holds meetings, Massaquoi goes to the radio. Radio Wanjei, Pujehun District’s community-owned and –operated radio station, has become the sole means of communication in a community where most lack both mobility and the funds to buy mobile phones.

In addition to helping facilitate the distribution of aid, Radio Wanjei also holds regular discussions on issues affecting amputees and war-wounded. Massaquoi says that Melvin Rogers, Radio Wanjei’s station manager, frequently invites him to the studio to participate in programs that include other leaders in the community. Most importantly, the radio is the only way for Massaquoi to get the word out when something is happening that affects them. “Whenever there’s an emergency,” Massaquoi said, “Melvin can help.”