NSS to host screening of ‘Kindoki Witch Boy’ with filmmakers

The makers of a film about the true story of a boy accused of 'witchcraft' will join the National Secular Society for a special screening.

'Kindoki Witch Boy' tells the story of Mardoche Yembi, who at 12 years old was sent from the Democratic Republic of Congo to London to live with his aunt and uncle. There, he suffered abuse at the hands of his extended family after he was accused of witchcraft, or being a 'Kindoki child', by an evangelical Christian pastor.

Now in his thirties, Mardoche created 'Kindoki Witch Boy' based on his experiences in collaboration with BAFTA-winning director Penny Woolcock.

It was released this year to coincide with the 25^th anniversary of the murder of eight year old Victoria Climbié, a victim of sustained spiritual abuse.

The film screening, which will be held on July 24^th in central London, will be followed by a conversation with Mardoche and Penny. This will give members of the audience a chance to ask them questions about the making of the film and the growing problem of spiritual abuse in the UK. Up to 2,000 children are victims of witchcraft-related abuse every year.

The event will be held in Lecture Theatre room G12 at the UCL Torrington Place Training Centre in central London. Tickets are free but registration is required.

NSS: Unwillingness to tackle sensitive religious issues has allowed spiritual abuse to go unchallenged

NSS engagement officer Fódhla Brady said: "Allegations of 'witchcraft' continue to lead to the spiritual abuse of children and vulnerable adults, often facilitated by religious institutions.

"However, an unwillingness to tackle sensitive issues around religious practices and beliefs has meant such abuse has not always been challenged.

"By screening this film, we aim to create greater awareness of 'witchcraft' beliefs and related abuse within religious communities, and promote conversation around this pressing issue."