As previously reported, the LRA released 28 women and children in Digba, DR Congo on March 21, 2013. According to the LRA Crisis Tracker, the group of 8 women, 13 girls, and 7 boys is the largest group to escape LRA captivity in more than three years.
So, what happened next? In this case MONUSCO DDR/RR (the UN office responsible for assisting LRA combatants and non-combatants to leave the group and return home) acted on information from Invisible Children’s Early Warning Radio Network to facilitate the transport of the women and children from Ango to Dungu. Some of the children have already been connected with UNICEF, who will reunite them with their families.
One of the women reported that prior to their release the group heard Invisible Children’s defection messaging – both through helicopter speakers and FM radio messages. They also reported seeing defection fliers. Invisible Children works with partners on the ground to encourage and facilitate the peaceful surrender of LRA combatants through defection programs and “Come Home” messaging. We believe these initiatives are some of the most effective ways to reduce threats to communities in central Africa and weaken the LRA’s ability to effectively operate. This recent defection solidifies that belief.
For those who have spent years, months, or even hours as a captive of the LRA, coming out of the bush and returning home can be extremely challenging. That’s why, three years ago, Invisible Children met with local leaders on the ground, including Abbe Benoit Kinalegu, to discuss long-term recovery solutions for LRA-affected regions like northeastern DR Congo. As a result of those conversations Invisible Children opened Centre Elikya, a rehabilitation center built specifically for children who have suffered trauma at the hands of the LRA – like the children who were just released on March 21st.
The center, which can accommodate 150 children, was opened at full capacity this year. It focuses on preparing children for successful reintegration into society through trauma counseling, and equipping children to return to school, or, if beyond school age, learning a marketable skill to be used in the workplace.
The overarching goal of Invisible Children is to assist those affected by the LRA by responding to their expressed needs. In addition to the rehabilitation center, Invisible Children Uganda has recovery programs that focus on livelihood, education, skill training, literacy courses, and counseling to aid in restoring and rehabilitating individuals and their communities. Together, we are seeing the promise of better things to come.
Learn more about Center Elikya
Donate
Think people should hear about this?