49 returnees begin new chapter with vital tools for livelihoods

Gulu | Terra Renaissance, a non-governmental organization, on May 29, 2025, officially graduated 49 former Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) returnees after 18 months of vocational training in Gulu City.

The graduates have been provided with life-saving tools valued at shs36.4 million (approximately $10,000 USD).

The ceremony, held at Terra Renaissance’s Gulu office, marked a historic moment for the Acholi sub-region.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including a representative from the 4th Division of the Uganda People’s Defense Forces, the deputy Resident City Commissioner, parents, and other local leaders.

Shingo Ogawa, director of Terra Renaissance Uganda, highlighted the organization’s mission since it began operations in 2006.

“We have been supporting various vulnerable groups including LRA returnees, children born in captivity, HIV survivors, teenage mothers and fathers, and street children known as ‘Aguu’ in the Acholi sub-region,” Ogawa said.

“Our goal is to offer only marketable courses to ensure employability and long-term sustainability.”

Since 2006, Terra Renaissance has trained and graduated approximately 450 beneficiaries in northern Uganda. Ogawa emphasized the organization’s commitment to post-training follow-up, including household visits and continued support to ensure business sustainability.

Jimmy F. Otema, team leader at Terra Renaissance, said 56 returnees were enrolled in carpentry, joinery, and fashion design courses. Of these, 49 completed the training—20 in carpentry and 29 in fashion design. Nine were repatriated to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“We have equipped them with skills, but we must continue encouraging others still in the bush to return,” Otema said. “These courses were selected because they are marketable and relevant.”

He urged the graduates to embrace their new lives and integrate peacefully into their communities.

“You are now the new Acholi,” he said. “Be different from your past, forget it, and look forward.”

Otema also called on parents and community members to support the returnees and refrain from stigmatization, which can hinder reintegration.

John Onyee Kinyera, a parent from Lamin-Lawino B Village in Omoro district, welcomed the graduates and advised them to live peacefully and choose their friends wisely.

“You’re going back to communities where you’ll meet all kinds of people—make wise choices,” Kinyera said. “Do not work alone; maintain the SACCOs you’ve formed to attract future support.”

He also encouraged them to put their skills to use, maintain their tools, and seek to train others in the community.

Harriet Acen, the head girl and a graduate from Wiya-Agweng village in Nwoya district, expressed gratitude for the vocational and life skills she received.

“Besides fashion and design, Terra also taught me business management, house management, and how to handle financial crises,” Acen said. “I’m ready to use this knowledge to support my family and contribute to my community.”

Acen became emotional during her speech, expressing her desire to give back.

“Terra Renaissance is like a semi-god to me,” she said.

Denis Kidega, a graduate and former compound and health prefect from Laliya Ward in Gulu City, urged his peers to be role models and continue building their skills by learning from others in the community.

Richard Irwenyo, the Gulu City Education Officer challenged the graduates to make good use of the tools they received.

“Do not sell your tools. If you misuse this opportunity, don’t come back to Terra begging,” he said. “Make wise choices and stay away from politics and alcoholism.”

Irwenyo also suggested that Terra Renaissance consider adding market-driven courses like phone and computer repair to their curriculum.

Terra Renaissance offers additional training programs including capacity building, basic needs support, psychological services, and income-generating activities.

Last year, the Ugandan government repatriated a total of 139 LRA returnees from the Central African Republic. Many have been receiving rehabilitation support at the SOS Center in Gulu City.