Empowering disabled girls in Goma

1. Project Summary

The “Empowering Disabled Girls in Goma” project aims to provide a dignified, secure, and autonomous life for girls living with disabilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Through holistic support and a nurturing environment, the project assists approximately 50 girls each quarter in Goma and Rutshuru. Among them, 26 girls benefit from long-term shelter and receive training in social entrepreneurship, along with psychological and economic reintegration support.

2. Humanitarian Context

In the DRC, over 17% of the population lives with a disability. Children with disabilities, especially girls, are often rejected, abandoned, or isolated — exposing them to abuse, sexual exploitation, violence, drug use, and unwanted pregnancies. The lack of tailored support systems reinforces stigma and denies them a chance at a better future.

3. Project Objectives

• Empower 47 girls with disabilities through training in social entrepreneurship.
• Provide a safe and welcoming home for 26 of them.
• Facilitate sustainable socio-economic reintegration when possible.
• Engage families and communities to reduce stigma and promote inclusion.
• Reception and initial care in our short-term transit center.
• Creation of a safe, esteem-building environment.
• Regular training sessions in entrepreneurship.
• Individual support: basic education, health care, counseling.
• Community awareness activities on disability rights and inclusion.
• Over 50 girls supported every quarter in Goma and Rutshuru.
• Strong bonds of trust and friendship built between the girls.
• Emergence of micro-initiatives in sewing, handicrafts, and small trade.
• Visible improvements in self-confidence, emotional well-being, and safety.

4. Activities Implemented5. Impact to Date6. Strategic Partnership with GlobalGiving

So far, the project has not yet mobilized any funding, though the estimated total cost is $9,000. Our partnership with GlobalGiving gives us hope and determination to achieve our goals.

This partnership helps us to:

• Increase visibility among international donors.
• Secure sustainable funding for the project.
• Ensure the continuity and expansion of the program to other areas.
• Funding for training materials, supervision, and follow-up
• Expansion of the shelter’s capacity
• Specialized health care and psychological support
• Support for launching income-generating activities

7. Urgent Needs8. Conclusion

This project transforms lives every day. Girls who were once excluded are now finding dignity, safety, and hope. With your support  and in collaboration with GlobalGiving  we strongly believe that we will reach our goal: a truly inclusive society where every girl, regardless of her disability, has a place, a voice, and a future.