As Namibia observes Heroes' Day, the founder of the Kufamosha Information Disability Centre, Petrus Theofelus, popularly known as Makiti, believes heroism can be demonstrated through compassion and making a difference in someone's life. 

The centre, located at Omalindi in the Oshikoto Region's Omuthiya Constituency, is home to more than 20 people with disabilities, who describe Theofelus as their hero.

"Tate Makiti is a hero, because he helped us to discover who we truly are. Many people with disabilities are still hidden from society and kept locked inside homes; take your relative with a disability out of the house to see the outside world. I was one of those people who never wanted to be seen, because of the way I looked, but after meeting him, my life has changed; he brought us to light, and now we have freedom we never had before," states resident Henok Mvula.

Theofelus established the centre five years ago. He said he was inspired to start the centre out of humanity and being involved in voluntary work in the past. 

"This centre caters for many people; we reach out to some villages because the space is limited, with few resources and volunteers. Some come from the villages to sleep over and go to the hospital the following day due to the distance from the villages to the hospitals. It is not easy; the current structure is a rental property. We just rely on donations from good Samaritans. I do not have a job. The centre aims at uplifting the families of those with disabilities and those with disabilities."

He said some families leave relatives with disabilities at the centre and do not return, while two people were found chained because their families could not cope with their disabilities. Some also lacked access to social grants. 

"I used to just be at home; the centre changed my life. I can now socialise with fellow people who show you love. I used to be stigmatised based on how I look; people used to mock me in my presence and absence," said Ndilimeke Lamek.

Gabriel Thomas added, "I regard him as a hero because of the dedication he has towards people with disabilities. We appreciate him; Makiti found me in the forest and brought me to live my life fully."

For Theofelus, he says it is not about recognition but about restoring dignity, hope and independence to people who are often overlooked by society.

As the centre continues to rely on donations and volunteers, he is appealing for support to establish a permanent structure to reach more people with disabilities.