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In Uganda, Africa, more than 30,000 children have been forced to become soldiers in a long civil war. But at World Vision’s Children of War Rehabilitation Centre in Gulu, Uganda, children trade their weapons for paintbrushes and drums. At the centre, children are surrounded by art, music, and friends — not violence.
OWL talked with 15-year-old Denis Okot, a former child soldier, about how the centre — and art — has changed his life for the better.
What is a typical day like for you?
Denis: I wake up at 6 a.m., pray on my bed, bathe, and go to morning prayers with the others. I have breakfast and talk with my teacher. The teachers tell us to think about our future. They laugh with us and love us.
What do you do for fun?
Denis: I love to pray and sing with the other children and to play and talk with my teacher. We do traditional dances, play soccer, draw pictures, and watch movies.
How has your life changed since you arrived?
Denis: Before I came to the centre, I used to see
ghosts in my dreams. Now I don’t see them.
What’s your biggest wish for the future?
Denis: To live in peace and be loved.
Photo Credits:
Philip Maher/World Vision (girl at centre, counselor).
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