“With this artificial limb I am like any other person. I can cook, fetch water and dig.”
— A woman in Gulu, northern Uganda

Physical rehabilitation supports victims as they reclaim their health and mobility, so they can take part once more in the life of their communities on their own terms. In post-conflict settings, it can be a powerful part of rebuilding the rhythms of everyday life.

Since 2008, the Trust Fund for Victims at the ICC has supported physical rehabilitation for people who have survived grave violations of bodily integrity, including mutilation. The most common injuries include burns and chronic wounds; the mutilation of ears, noses or lips; and the loss of limbs through deliberate amputation and landmines.

The TFV works alongside local partners so that survivors can access prosthetics and fittings, specialist reconstructive and general surgery, the removal of bullet and bomb fragments, and physiotherapy. This work has also included making civic buildings more accessible. It has also helped survivors of sexual violence reach fistula repair, HIV testing and treatment, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and other specialist care, including through referrals and transport.

The TFV has also worked with its partners to support local orthopaedic technologists in training on a new limb-fabrication method. This has strengthened expertise within the region and brought rehabilitation services to more orthopaedic workshops. As a result, people no longer need to travel long distances to have limbs repaired, fitted or replaced.

Support available through the TFV’s physical rehabilitation work includes:

  1. Reconstructive plastic surgery for facial, head and burn injuries
  2. Prosthetic devices (fitting and repairs)
  3. Physiotherapy
  4. Orthotic devices and related services
  5. Orthopaedic surgery
  6. Physical and mental health services for all survivors of sexual violence, including women, men and children
  7. Corrective surgery to remove bullets and shrapnel
  8. Relief of post-burn contractures, with corrective surgery and physiotherapy
  9. Mobility and recovery therapy for burns
  10. Community mobilisation initiatives led by survivors
  11. Referral links with trusted local providers for post-operative care and follow-up

What people describe as the most significant change is being able to live their lives again. They can make plans for the future, return to school and to their gardens, join community gatherings with confidence, and regain their independence.