Healing and Growth Through Play

Children often carry more than meets the eye.

Many live with hidden wounds such as fear, trauma, stress that weigh heavily on their young hearts.

Globally, one in seven adolescents experiences a mental disorder, accounting for 15% of the global burden of disease in this age group. In sub-Saharan Africa, the prevalence of depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder among adolescents is notably high, with rates of 27%, 30%, and 21% respectively

In Burundi, the situation is equally concerning. A study found that 92% of children had been displaced, 69% had their house burned, and 60% had experienced the death of a sibling, potentially due to war violence.

These traumatic experiences were associated with mental health disorders, such as depression, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and separation anxiety disorder, in 43% of children.

At WiGLI, we believe in the power of play to heal and transform.

Through our psycho-educational coaching sessions, children spend two joyful hours immersed in games designed not only for fun but also for growth. As they laugh, run, and collaborate, they are building resilience, learning teamwork, and gaining coping skills that strengthen them for life.

What may look like simple playtime is, in fact, profound therapy.

Every session brings smiles, healing, and renewed confidence.

At WiGLI, we see these moments as seeds of hope planted in young lives; seeds that will grow into strength and courage for the future.