20 former child soldiers in eastern Congo receive tools and begin vocational training

On 6 January, we brought trainers and teachers together to confirm working agreements and revise training schedules. We bought welding torches, hammers, saws, chisels, measuring tools, and protective gear. On 15 January, we distributed these tools to 20 participants so they could begin their vocational training.

The materials and tools cost $2,688, funded by Kwanda. This covered welding and metalwork materials ($1,409) and carpentry materials ($,279). Teachers' payments for three months (U$480) and transportation of materials ($120) were covered by local partners Fesser and Friends and World Hope Givers. We have $642 remaining from the Kwanda grant for ongoing training needs.

With training underway, we will continue teaching vocational skills and mentoring. We plan to connect graduates with local apprenticeships and business opportunities over the coming months. We will also continue to provide counselling and mentorship for participants who need extra emotional support.

Activities:

• Restarted project activities after the holidays on 6 January

• Held a meeting with trainers and teachers and confirmed working agreements

• Purchased vocational training materials

• Distributed tools and materials to 20 participants on 15 January

• Reminded everyone of project goals on skills development and earning income during the event

Shamuyiri J., a project participant, shared:

I am very happy to receive this support because it will help me become responsible for my life and not return to the armed group where I once believed I could find a future. Every day, I prayed to God to help me find meaningful work not as a child soldier, but as a man doing skilled manual work. Now I am hopeful. When I finish my training, I plan to return to my village in Masisi to find my mother and support her with food. I will also encourage other child soldiers to leave the bush and seek opportunities like this where they can learn a trade or return to school because staying in armed groups is a waste of time. I thank WHG and its partners, Kwanda and Fesser and Friends, for giving us new hope through this programme.