I am happy to say I was not disappointed! The village of Otse is beautiful, and I was able to meet many of the children. An all-day picnic was held where plenty of food was served and many games were played. But despite the happiness that I saw during that brief time, I was disheartened to hear about the children's welfare. I spent much time talking with several of the previous staff as well as many of the children. I was told that the picnic was the first time the children had seen each other in over a year. All of the children, no matter what age, missed Dula Sentle so greatly. Since its closure, many of the older girls have become pregnant, children have dropped out of school and started drinking and smoking, and many of the children are going hungry. Some of the children have given up hope, and the light has gone from their eyes.
During my trip, I was able to meet with the Ministry, the Chief and the locals. Everyone involved has given me their full support to reopen Dula Sentle. I cannot express how pleased I am to have been granted this support, because without it, the re-opening would not be possible. It is my intention to return there very soon to initiate the process of Dula Sentle's renovation. Unfortunately, over the years since its closure, all of the assets have been stolen, the windows broken and the grass overgrown. Rehabilitating the centre will be one of the greatest challenges but one that is welcome. Knowing that upon completion the children will once again have a place to go where they can feel safe and loved, makes any challenge seem so minute.
