"I imagine children singing, playing, sitting around the fireplace"

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Jujina sweeps the area in front of her home. In the past, her home was multi-generational and full of family. You could see the chain of life. Post-conflict, they have all gone - some killed, some abducted, others have left and not returned. She feels she lost everything in the conflict, and is coping with very little assistance. And yet, she indicates, you have to live.
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She lives alone with her husband, both in their late 70s. Rather than resting together as companions in their old age, or taking care of grandchildren, she is alone to take care of the home and grow food.
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Jujina on her way home from the fields.
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It is extremely rare for Jujina to bump into neighbours. There is not only physical distance and lack of youth in her home, but a broader breakdown in social well-being. As though a tree has been cut, and needs to find a new way to grow.
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It is a solitary life full of hard work. Jujina cares for her husband and must fend for herself.
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But her path will cross at times with others, and her isolation is broken on her Sunday visits to church.
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Jujina peels cassava she grew, harvested and carried home herself.
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A portrait of Jujina, approximately 77. Though she works hard and must remain strong, she knows she is growing fragile now.
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Jujina prepares dinner for two. She imagines children singing, playing, sitting around the fireplace. Youth to care for and give guidance to as they grow into adulthood. Young adults to be there in case she needs care. Instead, she lives in solitude.

Photo: Pete Muller for the ICC #LifeAfterConflict