Our Partnership with Mavuno 

While the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) boasts a wealth of natural resources, 62% of Congolese live below the international poverty line and the country has suffered decades of political instability and armed conflicts. High unemployment rates among youth fuel conflict and contribute to regional insecurities, with young people frequently targeted by militia group recruiters.  In April 2022, the DRC formally joined the East African Community (EAC), providing new economic incentives and unrestricted trade across borders.  This is encouraging news for DRC’s many young entrepreneurs who operate small informal businesses.  However, a majority of entrepreneurs have no access to formal credit, business and financial literacy training opportunities, and the English and computer skills that are needed to build a robust local economy.

We’re partnering with Mavuno to expand and deepen the impact of the Maarifa Learning Academy: an intensive training program in the DRC’s North Kivu province for small business owners with a focus on agripreneurship.  Through our partnership, entrepreneurs are gaining increased knowledge and skills in business planning, financial literacy, computers, and English. In addition, Mavuno will host a 2-day business expo for entrepreneurs to promote their products, and networking events for the broader community. In total, 200 entrepreneurs will expand their businesses, an additional 150 entrepreneurs will participate in networking events, and an estimated 400 youth will be employed by entrepreneurs’ small businesses!