On Wednesday participants spent the day with local organizations learning about development and health initiatives in the north. Some groups visited nearby IDP camps and met with beneficiaries of the organizations' programs, while others experienced the day-to-day life in the organizations' local offices and facilities. More to come on the specifics of each program.

Thursday we woke up early and boarded our 12-seater taxis and headed out to Paicho IDP camp where GYPA has sponsored sports programs with both young women and men in the community. Community members led small groups around the camp where we visited the health clinic, a youth center, and agricultural initiatives. Walking around, participants were able to witness daily life in the camp and gain a better understanding of the health and development challenges faced by the community.

As peace talks continue, many residents of the IDP camps are beginning to return to their villages. While most are eager to return home, a whole new set of challenges await the citizens of northern Uganda as they try to regain their land, build new homes, and start their lives again.

After a tour of the camp, we played games with the hundreds of children who came with us to a soccer field. Older participants and friends in the camp played soccer while the younger children sang songs and played games in small groups with other participants.

Thursday night brought a close to the Gulu portion of our program. After reflection and a closing ceremony we said a sad goodbye to our new friends from Gulu. On Friday we return to Kampala for the last few days of our program.