Mavuno is now 100% locally led! If you would still like to donate, you can now do so directly to the Congolese organization via the "Mavuno's American Friends Fund" through the King Baudouin Foundation - please donate here: https://kbfus.networkforgood.com/projects/53132-m-kbfus-funds-mavuno-dr
Eastern Congo is home to the world's deadliest conflict since World War II, claiming over 5.4 million lives. In 2011, DRC was ranked the least developed country in the world. Extreme poverty, malnutrition, infant mortality, and lack of education are a way of live. Rebel groups continue to terrorize communities, and the cycle of poverty and violence persists, limiting opportunities for employment or economic development. Many Congolese say they feel hopeless and see a future with no opportunity.
Mavuno's process is designed to place local interests and ingenuity at the center of a community's development. Organizing communities and building capacity of local leaders is key to Mavuno's approach, allowing for long-term sustainability. Mavuno not only provides the basic inputs and technical training needed, but also the structures through which communities can work together and effectively address needs.
Mavuno's theory of change states that this combination of human and economic develop leads to ending extreme poverty. Communities become more cohesive and resilient. Individuals have increased knowledge, capacity, and belief in their ability to produce change. Income generated from businesses is invested in education, health, sanitation, housing improvements, and savings in the event of setbacks.
