I was reminded I wasn't alone - Udoka's story

Moved by the surrounding poverty, Udoka generously fed orphans and poor children who otherwise might not be able to feed themselves. For this, she was arrested and tortured.

Udoka is from Cameroon where violence is rife, and her opportunities for education were taken from her by separatists imposing a ban on education. Unable to continue her schooling, Udoka started her own business, cooking for her local neighbourhood. She understood the suffering of those around her and this kindness led Udoka to provide food and support for poor children and orphans in her community, many of whom were left destitute by the ravages of civil war. 

Udoka’s actions didn’t go unnoticed by the oppressive government. They accused her of feeding the children of rebels and marked her as a collaborator. She was imprisoned and subjected to torture for her altruism. Fleeing the country, she was forced to leave her whole life behind her: she does not know the whereabouts of her adult sons – or even if they are alive. 

I would give our supporters a round of applause. They are concerned for us. I will always be grateful to them all the time.

Udoka’s loneliness was crushing, but recently she has been able to join our women’s group, where she’s made friends who understand what she’s been through, and where she is learning to trust others again. 

Together they do crafts and have become involved in the local community together. Being involved in a group like this reminds Udoka she isn’t alone. 

“Without Freedom from Torture, I don’t know what would have happened to me”, she says. “We’re all friends now. We go and meet every Wednesday, if there’s an event, we’re all there, we walk hand in hand, we walk together.”

Udoka’s story of resilience and compassion stands as a testament to the power of the human spirit. Generous donations help Udoka and others like her release some of their pain and rebuild their lives with hope for the future. 

With your continued support, we can reach and help many more people like Udoka who are in desperate need.

Please note, Udoka's name has been changed and a model is used in the photograph to protect her identity.