VVOB and Enabel’s Joint Statement on the Attacks on School Children in Uganda

All of us at VVOB and Enabel are deeply saddened and appalled by the devastating attacks on the school children at Lhubiriha Secondary School in Kasese District, Uganda. The brutality and senselessness of the murder and abduction of these innocent young girls and boys is unconscionable.

It is particularly distressing that these heinous acts occurred on the evening of Friday, June 16, 2023, a day designated to commemorate the Day of the African Child. This day, intended to celebrate and uplift the voices of African children, has now been marred by tragedy. Together with UNICEF and other partners, we strongly urge for the immediate release and safe return of the abducted learners.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the community and families affected by these horrifying acts. We can’t even imagine the pain and anguish they are experiencing. In this time of unimaginable sorrow, we stand in solidarity with them and offer our deepest condolences.

Schools should be sanctuaries of learning, where young people and educators can thrive and build a better future. Every child deserves a safe environment, free from fear and violence, where they can reach their full potential. We must collectively double down on our efforts to ensure that schools remain safe spaces for education.

We encourage the authorities to swiftly investigate this incident and bring the perpetrators to justice. This act of terror against innocent children is an affront to humanity, and we must do everything in our power to prevent such atrocities from occurring again.

Let us join forces to support the affected community and advocate for the right of every child to receive education in a secure environment. Together, we can work towards a future where schools are sanctuaries of knowledge, and where the potential of every child is nurtured and protected.