From Silence to Strength
Abducted at 14, Amsalech spoke out — now she's rebuilding her life with strength, education, and community support.
Amsalech* was just 14 when her life was torn apart during an ordinary walk to the market in Hula, Ethiopia, where she was helping her family sell their produce. A man she had never spoken to decided she would be his wife, and took her.
For 24 days, she was hidden, beaten, threatened, and moved from house to house to avoid being found, all while enduring his attempts to violate her.
“The darkest moment in my life was the day that I was abducted. I cannot forget that. I was hurt so much,” she said.
Her parents and neighbours searched desperately. With help from the police, World Vision, and the women and children’s office, which supports child protection, three of the abductor’s family members were arrested.
They claimed Amsalech wanted to marry the man, but police told them they could only be released if Amsalech confirmed it herself.
“I tricked him,” she said. “I said I’d tell the police we were getting married. But instead, I told them the truth about everything they did to me.” Her abductor was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Now 15, Amsalech is working towards her dream of becoming a doctor.
Amsalech had learned in a World Vision child protection training that girls have rights and are protected by law. That knowledge gave her the courage to speak up and seek justice.
“When I returned to my family, I was very happy. But I felt ashamed because of how the community saw me. They were cruel towards me.”
In her community, once a girl is abducted for marriage, she is expected to stay silent and accept it, even if it is violent or against her will.
Though deeply hurt, Amsalech is finding her way back with counselling, education support, and a new school.