Kampala kids

Today was a very full day, spent with some precious children here in Kampala, Uganda.

Without being overly cryptic, I cannot publicly share a lot of detail surrounding the organization or location of where we spent the day in order to protect the integrity of this incredible team of people, who are truly fighting for justice and restoration. 

I can say that we were at a prison - a prison for children who have "offended the government" ( likened in theory to a juvenile detention center) but also a holding facility of "street children" who were rounded up and brought here because the government didn't know what else to do with them. 

These street children are not what I've previously experienced in my time in Africa, as they are usually older kids, teens who run away or turn to the street and drugs like sniffing glue for survival. These little kids today were part of the Karamajong tribe, who've somewhat been displaced and have moved towards the city for a better life. They were so tiny and small and were literally living on streets in Kampala, begging for food just months ago with little to no adult supervision. 

They are being cared for at this child "prison" mainly as a result of this NGO who is ensuring the kids are fed meals daily, bathed, provided medical care and a safe shelter. 

An amazing and divine couple, Bernard & Brenda who are social workers live on site and see to these 50+ children and their well being. 

The conditions however in which these sweet tiny Karamajong children live however was fairly unimaginable compared to the regular living quarters of the other child "prisoners."

There were approximately 6 metal bunkbeds without mosquito nets side by side in the corner of a huge room, along with live, roaming chickens, flies, wash basins for laundry among other things. All to house and sleep 50 kids, averaging 3 sometimes 4 per little bed. 

It is mind boggling to see the corruption and injustice and dire conditions in which these people live, but to know they are children is even more heartbreaking. It was truly a privilege to spend the day with these Karamajong kids, playing, coloring, laughing and singing. 

The day was full and intense yet joy and hope remains.

Xo,

Mandy