The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a nation with a rich diversity and cultural heritage, shaped by its vast geographical expanse and over 200 ethnic groups, including the Bantu, Luba, Mongo, Kongo, and Mangbetu-Azande, among others. French is the official language, inherited from the colonial era, but numerous indigenous languages, such as Lingala, Swahili, Tshiluba, and Kikongo, reflect the deep cultural roots in DRC Congo.

Unfortunately, this rich diversity and cultural heritage has been marked by a difficult history, particularly for vulnerable children and widows. DRC Congo has faced decades of armed conflict, political unrest, and economic instability, creating complex challenges that disproportionately impact women and children. Since the most recent insecurity incident in March 2022, the eastern provinces have experienced heightened insecurity, resulting in a significant increase in child abuse and sexual violence against women and severe limitations on humanitarian activities. A lot of families have moved to Kinshasa and mostly live on the streets, searching for basic needs from well-wishers. Some of these challenges include

Armed Conflict and Its Toll

The scars of armed conflict run deep in the history of DRC, stemming from disputes that erupted in the 1990s and persist to this day. The consequences of this unrest are severe, leading to internal displacements, societal challenges, and a rising number of orphans. Vulnerable children and women innocently find themselves at the forefront of the crisis, grappling with the loss, displacement, and exposure to violence.

 

Poverty and Economic Struggles

DRC stands as one of the poorest countries globally, with a staggering 77% of its population living in poverty, surviving on less than $1.90 per day. This economic instability hits children and women the hardest, exacerbating their vulnerability. The lack of resources and opportunities plunges them into extreme living conditions, where accessing even the most necessities becomes a daily struggle.

 

Education as a Distant Dream

In the wake of poverty and conflict, access to quality education has become a distant dream for many vulnerable children. Despite significant progress in providing universal access to education, barriers persist, particularly for vulnerable and low-income households. Indirect costs such as school materials, uniforms, and shoes stand as obstacles, hindering the academic journey of countless children.

 

Healthcare Challenges and Malnutrition

The ongoing challenges in DRC also translate into limited access to essential healthcare services, leading to dire consequences for children. Malnutrition is a silent crisis and the underlying cause of almost half of the deaths of children under the age of five, contributing to about 45% of deaths of vulnerable children below five years. Malnutrition increases healthcare costs for households and is a result of food insecurity and poverty at household levels.