Gulu District

We arrived in Gulu yesterday bearing gifts, fruits of our travels --mangoes to be exact--picked up from the roadside stand along our drive north. We are staying with the very kind and generous Father Joseph Okumu, of the Catechists Training Center on the edge of town. David (rightly) thought it would be respectful and proper to greet our hosts at dinner with a small gift. He presented the bag of mangoes we picked up en route. Turns out the catechists grounds are covered in mango trees, which loudly drop their large, ripe fruits to the ground. (It sounds like a basketball crashing through tree limbs.) So, turns out, they’re already well supplied on mangoes. But it’s the thought that counts, right?

Today, Father Joe set up a number of important meetings for us, with individuals who took our calls largely because of his highly respected company and influence. We are very grateful for his friendship and his willingness to help Clearwater Initiative. Thank you, Father Joe.

The photos from today show David and I in meetings, and in front of the District offices with Chairman Norbert Mao. Mao was very receptive to Clearwater’s work in the region and has offered his support when we need further information on water projects in the region and in providing contacts whom can advise us in choosing the ones best fit for Clearwater Initiative.

What we know is the water needs of post-conflict Northern Uganda are changing. The Internally Displaced Persons (IDP’s) are now returning to their villages in light of the improved security environment. The North is beginning to shift focus from crisis management to development, which is an encouraging sign for the Acholi people, who have suffered through over 20 years of civil war, disruption, and displacement. Chairman Mao said today that disease prevention is key and that “access to clean water [can address] fifty percent of our health issues.” This is why the work of Clearwater is so vital; and why local officials are enthusiastic about the work we can provide.

It seems like everyone here has a connection to the conflict. The story of the driver who ferried us back to our lodging this evening was a reminder of how pervasive the war was in this region. He is a 22-year-old war orphan who dropped out of school to support himself and his family. The family collects their daily water with jerry cans from a borehole. The capability of these individuals to carry on is a testament to their strength and courage. I am thankful for the sharing of their stories and emboldened to press on with our work in their honor.

-Posted by Jake Herrle