Monday morning Rebecca Litman and Greg Hartman joined the group to present their research on The Lasting Psychological Effects of the Conflict in Northern Uganda. After a very informative overview of their findings, the group launched into a long discussion about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the correlation between PTSD and individuals who had been abducted by the LRA.

In the afternoon, a representative from The AIDS Support Organization joined the group to provide an overview of the services that the clinic provides to HIV infected people.

Following many small group discussions the Ugandan participants took the Americans around Gulu town. Rolexes are a new group favorite (fried egg rolled up in delicious chapati tortilla) and we have given the tailors in the market who make beautiful fabric dresses, purses etc. quite a bit of business!

After dinner the group braved a sudden rain storm and went to a local restaurant for a reflection session. It was great to talk about our experiences thus far with the rain pouring down outside and the muddy and wet trek home made it a fun adventure!



Tuesday morning, the charismatic Rocky Moyoo from the Gulu Women’s Economic Development and Globalization organization spoke to the group about their exciting initiatives. An excellent example of a local organization having a large impact, the 9 members of staff have trained 500 women in nearby IDP camps to carryout health and women’s rights outreaches throughout the community.

Following lunch, we visited an organization called Restoring Northern Uganda’s Healthcare ReNUH. Josh and Sarah, two Americans who came to Gulu with different organizations, started the project a year ago and have spent the past year doing research on the biggest needs in the healthcare system in the north. The group and was able to apply knowledge from prior speakers to ask informed questions as well as provide constructive thoughts regarding the young organization\s goals. ReNUH representatives took the participants in small groups on a tour of the Gulu Regional Hospital compound where we were able to see some of the major gaps in the healthcare system firsthand. While it was difficult to see the very low quality of facilities and services, the afternoon seemed to revive many people’s energy and hope that with the correct intentions and accurate information, we can all find a positive role to play in the complex world of development.

Today (Wednesday) the participants are out in small groups spending the day with different organizations in the field. The AIDS Support Network, CARE, Information for Youth Empowerment, The Gulu Women’s Economic Development & Globalization, and Invisible Children. Stay tuned to hear how the day went!