Emmanuel Ayo is the eldest of five children. Like his younger sister Jessica Apio,
Emmanuel has faced significant hardship since their father disappeared and their
mother left for Acholi-land over a year ago, claiming she was seeking work. Since her
departure, there has been no communication or financial support from her.

Emmanuel, Jessica, and their siblings now live with their grandfather, who also cares
for four additional children, bringing the total number of dependents in his household
to nine. Despite his age and limited means, the grandfather works as a peasant
farmer, selling small portions of his harvest to pay for the children’s school fees.