News from a Mud Hut

ICTJ's president visits ChildVoice's Centre

by Lowna Gie : June 10, 2010

On 6 June, David Tolbert, the president of the International Centre for Transitional Justice (ICTJ), Michael Otim, ITJC’s Ugandan representative, Martin Mennecke, the Danish representative to the ICC Review Conference and staff of the Justice and Reconciliation Project (JRP), a grassroots organization based here in Gulu came to visit the ChildVoice Centre. Upon arrival, all visited the Lukodi massacre memorial. Here a local leader shared his story of how the rebels destroyed the village of Lukodi on May 19^th 2004. He explained that the rebels burnt down every hut, killed over 60 people, and abducted many children that day. To show respect for everyone who died, Mr. Mennecke and Mr. Tolbert, laid wreaths on the memorial.

Next the visitors returned to the centre where they were warmly welcomed. The girls sang a welcome song and danced the traditional Ajere dance. D’Andrea Weeks, the acting program director, addressed the visitors, students and community members present. She told the visitors about ChildVoice’s vision, achievements and challenges. D’Andrea also addressed the need for justice and healing in the community of Lukodi. She urged the ICTJ and JRP to partner with ChildVoice to make this happen.

This was followed by an open discussion and dialogue with the students, staff and community members. Stories were shared and many questions were asked. Mr. Tolbert spoke to everyone and tackled the issues raised. He spoke about the limitations of the ICC and asked the community to be patient as justice takes time. He said that justice for Northern Uganda, would require a fully functional national court, a truth and reconciliation committee, as well as reparations.

After the speeches, the visitors were treated to one of ChildVoice’s famous cakes. As he was leaving, Mr. Tolbert said that he had travelled all over the world but the warmest welcome he had ever received was at ChildVoice. Oh, how proud am I to be part of the ChildVoice family.