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WritingsOur writings section features stories addressing the issue of ChildSoldiers written by youth in Sierra LeoneA Glimmer of Hope ...By Musa Kamara,Theatre Coordinator for Ex-Child combatant iEARN Sierra LeoneI hope and trust that the New Year would bring glimmer of hope to the children of the globe, especially Africa and war-affected areas. In certain parts of the world, children have been relatively and reasonably cared for both mentally and physically because certainly, they are being perceived as future leaders that can replace them or occupy positions of trust. My country Sierra Leone has gone through a bloody and bitter rebel conflict for almost a decade, and yet still remains to discontinue the practice of abducting and conscripting child, soldiers whom have been considered to have committed wide-spread atrocities among the civilian population. The warring factions still unclearly explain the reason why these children were being abducted. They have been the unnecessary victims of circumstance. Some of them have died due to the lack of resistance, some who have survived have recounted terrible stories of atrocities being perpetuated. Certain members from their ranks have done this act against their wishes. Apparently, these are some of the most appalling causes this war has indulged kids into. The issue of raising awareness about child-soldiers cannot be emphasized. The global community can however consider it a priority to ensure that they be integrated back to society for our good and that of the future generation. If given the opportunity, I*EARN Sierra Leone together with its international partners will love to constantly and theatrically de-traumatize ex-child combatants employing peace and reconciliation drama as a formidable tool. By Musa Kamara, Theatre Coordinator for Ex-Child combatant iEARN Sierra Leone |