THE DIGNITY AND RIGHTS OF OLDER PEOPLE IN THE DRC

Older people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are among the most vulnerable members of society, yet their needs and contributions are often overlooked. Many face poverty, chronic illnesses, inadequate nutrition, limited access to healthcare, and a lack of social support. In Bukavu and Goma, insecurity and low awareness of older people's rights make these challenges even more difficult to overcome. Through this project, we aim to help restore dignity, strengthen independence, and ensure that older people are treated with the respect and care they deserve.

The project is currently in its preparation and resource mobilization phase. We are identifying qualified trainers and prospective learners to ensure that the planned activities respond to the needs and abilities of older people in the target communities. With a total budget of US$40,000, the project aims to reach 200 older adults through targeted support, practical skills training, improved access to essential services, and initiatives that promote inclusion and combat age-based discrimination. No funds have been raised to date, and the main activities have not yet begun. However, our collaboration with GlobalGiving offers an important opportunity to reach a wider community of international donors and build the support needed to turn this vision into action.

Behind this project are older women and men who deserve more than sympathy: they deserve opportunities, security, and the chance to remain active members of their communities. We look forward to a future in which older people can strengthen their livelihoods, access appropriate care, share their knowledge with younger generations, and live with greater dignity and independence. Achieving these goals will depend on the support we receive and our ability to mobilize the resources required to implement the project effectively.

We extend our sincere gratitude to GlobalGiving for helping us connect with people who care about vulnerable communities, and to every donor who has supported or shared our mission. We invite individuals, organizations, and compassionate supporters around the world to join us in making this project possible. Your donation, whatever its size, can help bring us closer to our US$40,000 goal and create meaningful opportunities for 200 older adults in the DRC. Together, we can help ensure that growing older does not mean being forgotten, excluded, or left behind. Thank you for standing with us in the fight for dignity, rights, and inclusion for older people.