Our partnership with World Relief

*Trigger Warning* Sexual Assault

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, women’s bodies are used as weapons of war by militia groups fueled by tribal conflict. In rural communities, members of armed groups trap and ambush women as they work in agricultural fields or look for firewood in the forests. Nearly 60% of women in Congo have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives. Instead of being offered comfort and care, survivors of sexual and gender based violence (SGBV) are frequently blamed and shunned for this violation of their bodies. 

Our partnership with World Relief supported empowerment and healing for survivors of SGBV. We provided 20 fistula repair surgeries for women and girls who suffered physical trauma from sexual violence. Support groups were also created so that survivors may share their experiences, and 350 women received seeds and tools to plant staple crops and vegetables, which allows them to feed their family and earn income from any surplus produce. Lastly, our partnership created savings groups where survivors utilized their savings to pay school fees, seek medical care or invest in small business or farming activities.