In Loving Memory: Henk Hammer

With great respect and deep gratitude, we say goodbye to Henk Hammer, co-founder of the Sibusiso Center in Arusha, Tanzania.

Together with his wife Atty, Henk shaped a place where children with disabilities and their families found hope, help, and a future.

Henk was the silent force, the thinker behind the scenes. With his expertise, calm approach, and sense of humor, he could understand even the most complex situations. With a sharp, often unexpected quip, he could strike just the right chord—putting things in perspective, clarifying, and always with a smile.

He was a pillar of support for Atty—who, supported by his strength and dedication, could realize her life’s work.

We honor Henk for who he was and what he left behind: a place of compassion, development, and humanity. His legacy lives on in the work of Sibusiso and in the countless lives changed by his efforts.

Our thoughts are with Atty, the family, friends, and everyone who loved him.

Thank you, Henk.

Also view our other news

A lot happens at Sibusiso. In the news, you can read the stories and developments that give strength to our mission in Tanzania.

Teacher training for equal opportunities for children

Last week, we conducted an important training session at the Sibusiso center. In the Knowledge Center, 62 teachers from various schools were present to participate in training for children with developmental challenges.

Martha Lukasi: ‘We are bringing rehabilitation to the communities’

Interview with Martha Lukasi about Sibusiso’s new activities: ‘We are going into the communities and fighting for inclusivity for all children’.

Sibusiso chooses inclusion and strong communities

The new Strategic Plan 2026-2030 is now available. In it, Sibusiso outlines our commitment to working towards inclusion and strong communities in the coming years.

The programs

Would you like to know more about the programs we organize for the development of children with disabilities?

Day treatment

Child comes to the center once a month. Tailored therapy: physiotherapy, nutrition. Personal plan. Then continue at home via outreach.

7-week program

Seven weeks full of development. Young children learn to eat, move and communicate. Mothers learn too. This is followed by home guidance via outreach.

6-month program

Children and young adults with disabilities learn practical, social, and academic skills within 6 months for an independent future.

Outreach program

The Outreach Team provides home therapy, advice, assistive devices, and breaks down taboos, ensuring children with disabilities receive more opportunities and acceptance.

Custom-made assistive devices

In the center, carpenters and physiotherapists custom-make assistive devices such as wheelchairs and chairs, improving children’s therapy and mobility.

Events

Sibusiso shares knowledge through theme days, sports, play and celebrations. Families, care providers and governments learn and celebrate together with the children.

Training

Sibusiso shares 25 years of knowledge through a new knowledge center with training and education to increase understanding and acceptance of children with disabilities.