Thousands of children were born as a result of sexual violence in northern Uganda during the armed conflict that lasted from to Now, as teenagers and young adults who are trying to find their place back in their communities, these young men and women face a multitude of challenges β including stigma, poverty, and social exclusion β which hinder their reintegration into society and their future prospects.
Among the serious crimes committed by the LRA, led by the infamous Joseph Kony, it is estimated that some 66, children and youth were abducted to serve as soldiers or sex slaves. ICTJ spoke with people in the northern regions of Acholi, Lango, Teso, and West Nile in April to analyze the long-term consequences of the lack of accountability sexual violence committed during the conflict. Among those interviewed there were 52 children born of sexual violence 27 girls, 25 boys , who reflected on the challenges they face through group discussions and drawing exercises.
Nothing can capture more clearly the ongoing impact of sexual violence than the words written by these young women and men. This photo gallery presents a selection of their drawings and thoughts on how their communities perceive them and how they see themselves and their hopes for the future. Children born of sexual violence are marginalized in northern Uganda. When describing themselves in these drawings, the adolescents show resilience in moving past this rejection.
Nevertheless, many express contradictory feelings and frustration caused by the institutional neglect and total lack of opportunities. Many participants emphasize that they need support in order to have successful futures and contribute to their communities. Most of the adolescents see education as the essential step towards personal improvement, and they often link their own well-being to that of their communities and their country. I am hoping to have a good living. I want to help my parents, relatives and all of Uganda.
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