The meaning of land and place for children born of war in northern Uganda

Abstract

The abduction and forced marriage of females was a key military strategy of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) during northern Uganda’s civil war (1986–2007). Thousands of abducted girls became pregnant from sexual violence, giving birth to large numbers of children born of war. This article explores the experiences of 85 children born in LRA captivity, with a particular focus on the implications and meaning of both land and place. In the aftermath of the war, these children have been compelled to integrate into families and communities that often reject them because of their birth origins, identities, and former LRA affiliation. Facing multiple post-war challenges including poverty, and discrimination, many participants sought to retrace and reconnect with their paternal families to secure a better future. We highlight the important role of both land and place in the lives of children born in LRA captivity, particularly as it relates to belonging, social acceptance, and financial security. We conclude with a discussion of the potential risks and benefits of family tracing endeavors with children born of war in northern Uganda.

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