David Kibiriti - Child Protection Officer

1 Nov 2011

David Kibiriti - Child Protection Officer

Inspired by his most recent work experience with children in armed conflict in Sri Lanka, he came to Sudan in February 2008 to serve as UNV volunteer Child Protection Officer with UNMIS.
Since his arrival he has been stationed in Wau and Kwajok covering the three states in Sector 2: Western Bahr el Ghazal, Northern Bahr el Ghazal and Warrap.
David's work focuses on children associated with armed forces and groups. In support of the reintegration of child soldiers, he works closely with the Government's Disarmament Demobilisation and Reintegration programme, helping children to become part of civilian life through schooling and vocational training.
He is also monitoring and reporting on juvenile justice, promoting the fair treatment of children in contact and in conflict with the law. Children in contact with the law are in prison with their mothers, the others for having committed a crime. David is of the opinion that "police and prison should be the last resort for children, as rather then correcting behaviour, it could make them harsher".
"After the peace agreement was signed, I decided to come to Sudan, to offer something to my continent. In university, in Kenya, many of my colleagues were Sudanese refugees. Their hope gave me the courage to come and help in the reconstruction of their country. Knowing what war does to a country and its people, I feel happy to be here, contributing to having a better environment for the children of Sudan to become responsible citizens."
David's volunteer service, as a Child Protection Officer is guided by the Security Council resolution on children and armed conflict. He is working within a UN framework for monitoring and reporting, which acknowledges the fact that it is the primary role of national Governments to provide effective protection and relief to all children affected by armed conflicts.