In Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, war and instability weaken women and children every day. Many live in silence, carrying the weight of violence, convinced they have no choice and no future. Yet behind this dark reality, stories of courage and renewal continue to emerge.

This is the path that HEAL Africa and its partners strive to build: supporting survivors of gender-based violence, protecting the most vulnerable, and giving them the opportunity to rebuild their lives.

Kahindo: From pain to independence

When Kahindo first walked through the doors of HEAL Africa’s safe and secure space, she carried nothing but silence and wounds. Her eyes were fixed on the ground, her voice barely a whisper. The violence she had endured had locked her into shame and resignation.

Over time, psychological support and attentive follow-up helped Kahindo regain her self-esteem. Step by step, she engaged in the training offered: soap-making, preparing mandazi (fried pastries), and managing a small business. Today, she proudly presents her products and speaks about her plans for growth. She has even expanded her activity to include beauty products, attracting a loyal clientele.

Her journey illustrates a simple truth: when a woman receives the right tools and support, she can transform her life and that of her family.

Transformed lives, stronger communities

Kahindo’s story is not an isolated one. In North and South Kivu provinces, dozens of women are benefiting from the same program carried out by HEAL Africa.

The program includes:

• Psychological support provided by specialists to heal invisible wounds.
• Practical training (soap-making, tailoring, pastry-making, hairdressing, make-up), equipping women with skills directly applicable to income-generating activities.
• Economic support, including start-up capital and integration into Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), fostering solidarity and the growth of small businesses.

The results are tangible:

• Women who once had no resources now run their own businesses;
• Families who struggled to find enough food have regained stability;
• Children are staying in school because their mothers can finally afford the fees.

“My children didn’t go to school, but today they go like the others. This support has completely transformed my life.”, shares a woman beneficiary.

Beyond the numbers, dignity shines through every smile, newfound confidence is heard in every voice, and autonomy is gradually reshaping entire communities.

Each woman supported is no longer defined by the violence she endured, but by the choices she reclaims. By supporting these initiatives, you become part of this change: giving a chance means giving a voice, a strength, and a future.