Yemen : Ahmed returns to school thanks to his prosthetis

Ahmed was shot in the leg while traveling with his family, an injury that led to an amputation. Humanity & Inclusion is helping him walk again.

A young boy is standing in a physical therapy room, leaning slightly on white and blue parallel bars anchored to the floor, which are used for walking practice. The room is brightly lit, with medical and educational posters hanging on the wall in the background.

Ahmed at the HI rehabilitation center for physical therapy sessions © HI | © HI

The tragic accident

It was in 2022. Ahmed, who was just 10 years old at the time, had just finished his school exams with good grades. He was on holiday and traveling by bus with his family to Sheikh Othman, near Aden, in southern Yemen. But during the journey, a passenger accidentally discharged his weapon, injuring Ahmed in the leg. Many men are armed in Yemen, and such accidents are common.

Rushed to the hospital, the boy, in shock, underwent five surgeries to save his leg. But amputation could not be avoided. Ahmed remained bedridden for over a year before his parents found the medical help their son needed.

Decisive support

In 2025, Ahmed's family encountered Humanity & Inclusion (HI)'s rehabilitation teams, who replaced his prosthesis. His previous one was worn out and no longer suited his body, as the boy is growing fast - he is now 14 years old. He also completed a series of physiotherapy sessions. In addition, Ahmed received psychological support to help him overcome the trauma linked to the accident and to his new disability.

A courageous return to school

Ahmed was able to return to school. This was not easy for him: he had to face both physical and emotional challenges, including dealing with how others looked at him. But thanks to his new prosthesis and his strong determination, he has regained his place among his classmates, refusing to be defined or limited by his disability.

Supporting communities in a fragile health system

Al-Jumhouri Hospital and the Aden Rehabilitation Center are supported by an HI project funded by the European Union and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (DDC). This project aims to improve access to surgical care, physical rehabilitation, and psychosocial support for people affected by the conflict in Yemen. In particular, the project provides: prosthetics and mobility aids, physical therapy and rehabilitation sessions, psychosocial support. Since 2021, more than 21,000 people have received prosthetics, rehabilitation sessions, and psychosocial support; more than 70,000 have received protection services; and more than 26,000 have been assisted through mine action activities. For these beneficiaries, these services represent a unique opportunity to regain their independence and dignity after tragic events.

Date published: 20/04/26