Lwani

Saturday, July 28, 2007

Representing

Representing my grandfather's oratory prowess.

The need for social redemption

Social redemption? Does the need for it ring a bell in your head? Then just maybe we need it. I think we do. What do you think? A group of NGO colleagues pose with children in an IDP camp in Northern Uganda. A smile can reduce distress and togetherness can break down those barriers between us.

Shelter does not make a home

Looking at these structures in the IDP camps and the life there-in, i was left with just one lamentation: Shelter does not make a home. There is no way these grass thatched structures can be a home to the multitudes who take refuge in them. The small white structures in the foreground are some of the emergency latrines built by the NGOs that have tried to supplement government's efforts. Hygiene and sanitation remain as huge a challenge to the people in this camp (Omiya Anyima) as eating an elephant is to a lion.

Don't turn your backs

Much as i was standing with my back to the camp, i honestly hope that our attitude will not be that of turning our backs to the challenges that continue to bedevil our brothers and sisters. On this particular day the winds were blowing so hard. Its hands were shaking all in its way including my garments. Just look at the background and think of those who call these squalid hoods their home. Don't you think such images are a sad commentary on the history of this nation?

Bird's Eye view

This is a bird's eye view of Omiya Anyima-one of the camps in Northern Uganda. Of late i've been thinking that much as the life in the camps is horrible, publicity can instigate change, i actually think if some of these pics are used for post cards, some money could be raised to help these folks. If you share my view, holla at me: okema.lenny@gmail.com