Priscus Shayo

Priscus Shayo got a spinal cord injury after he fell from the tree, left him unable to use his legs
and fearful for his future. Then he received peer to peer training from Songambele, and his
confidence grew so much that he becomes a peer trainer.

After the accident, I was in hospital for one year and when I was out of hospital, I stayed home
for almost two years. I did not know anything about my injury and managing my life was a
problem. Today, I look like this because of Songambele Peer supporters who invited me to join
the training and after the training I started gaining hope, taking care of myself. And now I am
trained to counsel and mentor other people with spinal cord injuries in the community. I'm also a
coach for wheelchair basketball.

I can go anywhere I want. I feel free when I’m in the community and when people are asking me
different questions about disability, I take it an opportunity to raise awareness about inclusion
My life has gradually been changed by Songambele and I want to thank Songambele for all the
support they are giving us. I also wish they are to continue because there are so many people
still getting spinal injury especial in rural areas where information is very minimal.

I love sport because through sport, persons with disabilities acquire vital social skills, develop
independence, and become empowered to act as agents of change. Sport teaches individuals
how to communicate effectively as well as the significance of teamwork and cooperation and
respect for others.