In the Haute-Kotto prefecture of the Central African Republic, a humanitarian initiative led by the NGO Espérance is helping former child soldiers rebuild their lives through vocational training, psychological support, and reintegration programmes.
The organisation is offering hands-on skills development in trades such as sewing, alongside structured daily routines aimed at restoring stability and confidence among children affected by armed conflict.
Christophe Evariste Yonaba, a sewing instructor with the programme, described the daily structure of training sessions, which include meals, breaks, and practical lessons lasting until mid-afternoon. He said the children show strong motivation as they learn skills they can use to earn a living.
“They come in and we give them a normal lunch. They have a short break, then we resume the training again until exactly 2 p.m. They eat enough before going back home to their parents,” Yonaba said. “There are lots of changes. They really like learning hands-on trades to earn a living.”
For many participants, the initiative has become more than just vocational training. It is also a pathway to emotional recovery and social reintegration.
Romain, a former child soldier, said the sewing programme has helped him regain a sense of calm and independence. “Sewing is a good opportunity for me. It relaxes my mind; it soothes me,” he said. “With the little money I earn thanks to what I’ve learnt here, I’m already able to cover my needs, such as paying my school fees.”
Another beneficiary, Amadou, spoke about the stigma faced by former child soldiers in their communities, but noted gradual improvement through family support and rehabilitation efforts. “I’m still heavily stigmatised in the village. But my parents have always supported me,” he said. “Thanks to Espérance, we’re smiling again.”
The Central African Republic continues to grapple with insecurity linked to the presence of armed groups. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), approximately 2,000 children in the country are still associated with such groups.
However, organisations like Espérance are facing growing financial constraints, particularly due to reductions in international aid, including funding cuts from USAID, limiting the reach of rehabilitation programmes.
Despite these challenges, local educators and humanitarian workers say the progress seen among participants underscores the importance of sustained investment in recovery and reintegration efforts for vulnerable youth.
