Eliimu Haki – Education and Peace for Children and Youth in DR Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is one of the poorest countries in the world, with 55 million people living in poverty. Decades of violent conflict have left public institutions weak, and unable to alleviate poverty or promote development in the country.

Conflicts have led to the displacement of 5.5 million people and prevented 7.7 million children from attending school. 43% of the children are malnourished and only fifth of the households have access to sanitation.

Strengthening human rights through peacebuilding activities

Fida’s Country Programme promotes peacebuilding and strengthens human dignity by changing attitudes towards disability, gender, and inclusive education. Fida partners with the local Pentecostal church CEPAC. Work is implemented in the North Kivu, South Kivu, and Tanganyika provinces.  

Advancing the rights of children with disabilities

The Country Programme includes teacher training, psychosocial support, and awareness raising campaigns for the rights of children with disabilities. Communities receive training on sexual and reproductive health and rights and information about issues such as teenage pregnancies. 

The local partner receives training so they can support children in conflict regions, for example by setting up child-friendly spaces and play areas in refugee camps. The partner is also trained in financial and administrative management and advocacy, supporting them to become an independent agent of change in th DRC.