Empowering Survivors of GBV in Rutshuru and Lubero

For women who have survived gender-based violence in the conflict-affected communities of Rutshuru and Lubero, rebuilding a life of dignity is not simply a matter of receiving assistance. It means having a safe space to heal, the opportunity to regain confidence, and the means to become economically independent. Through the Hope and Resilience project, our organization aims to support 40 women survivors with psychosocial care, practical vocational training, and start-up kits that will enable them to begin small income-generating activities. The project responds to the interconnected challenges of trauma, poverty, social exclusion, and lack of economic opportunities faced by survivors in these communities.

At this stage, the project is in its preparation and resource-mobilization phase. We are identifying qualified trainers and potential participants and preparing the practical arrangements needed for implementation. The planned activities include group psychosocial support, vocational training adapted to the local context—such as tailoring, soap-making, or other viable livelihood activities—and the distribution of start-up kits to help each participant establish a small income-generating activity. The project was initially planned to begin in November 2025, and we are continuing the preparation and mobilization process to ensure that implementation can move forward responsibly and effectively. To date, USD 0 of the USD 6,750 target has been raised, which makes the support of our partners and individual donors especially important.

Despite the funding gap, we remain committed to reaching these 40 women. We believe that recovery becomes more sustainable when survivors are supported not only emotionally, but also with practical skills and opportunities to earn an income. A sewing machine, soap-making materials, or another appropriate livelihood kit can represent much more than equipment—it can become a pathway toward independence, renewed confidence, and a stronger place within the community. With the collaboration and support of GlobalGiving, we are confident that this project can reach a wider community of international donors and move closer to its full funding goal. We warmly thank GlobalGiving and every person who has believed in the importance of this initiative and helped create an opportunity for these women to be heard.

An Invitation to Stand With Survivors

We invite donors, partners, friends, and organizations around the world to join us in making Hope and Resilience possible. A contribution of any size can help provide psychosocial support, vocational training, or the materials needed for a woman to start rebuilding her livelihood. Your support can help transform a story marked by violence and displacement into one of courage, dignity, and renewed hope. Together, we can help 40 women survivors move from survival toward resilience and self-reliance.

Thank you to GlobalGiving and to all our current and future donors for standing with survivors of gender-based violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Your solidarity can make hope possible where it is needed most.