Former Boko Haram child soldier Henry launches tailoring business

Henry, 14, lived in a small village with his family at the epicenter of the Boko Haram insurgency. When their village was invaded by Boko Haram troops Henry witnessed them kill his father and his family members. He recalls how he was only spared as they forcefully took him away as a recruit to the armed group.

Against his will, Henry was with the group for two years until he was arrested by Nigeria government forces. When Henry remembers the horrible experiences he was forced to witness and sometimes partake in, he describes how he felt deeply ashamed and at times suicidal.  He feared returning to his community as he thought he would be outcast and stigmatized.

Henry decided to join Street Child and UNICEF’s social reintegration and economic empowerment program. He was taught the skill of tailoring and was provided with a sewing machine and the materials to set up a small business. Now Henry can sew beautiful garments and is financially self-sufficient. His community accepts Henry and he is no longer seen as a burden.

Henry said:

“I am so happy now because I have gained acceptance and am not being discriminated against in the community where I live. I have acquired a skill in tailoring and I was provided with a sewing machine and other materials. Now I can sew and make money to cater for my needs and family”.