Program participants in DRC. Photo by RET, 2024.

Article by RET Germany in DRC

BUKOMBO, NORTH KIVU, D.R.C. – In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), RET Germany has been working tirelessly since 2021 on the implementation of project to address the problems of food insecurity, risk of malnutrition, and lack of stability due to inter-community conflicts. Mapenzi Muhindo is a demobilized youth living in Bukombo village in the Masisi territory or North Kivu province. RET Germany spoke to him about his experience with this BMZ-funded project, and the following is his story, in his own words:

“I was in an armed group, went to a CTO [center for transit and orientation]. and I was demobilized. After demobilization, I stayed in the community, but I was not able to survive with the reintegration kit I received. I no longer had an occupation and… I was tempted to return to the armed groups. By the grace of God, FDAPID and RET Germany were in the process of identifying demobilized youth and other vulnerable categories [of people] for the BMZ project.

“We were among the people selected and registered for assistance, [and] with the lessons received, and motivated by agriculture and livestock farming, today I no longer want to return to the armed groups. The project mentored us in agriculture, animal husbandry and peace activities. We learned how to use farming techniques to produce more, and have enough money for our needs.

“By the grace of God, FDAPID and RET Germany were in the process of identifying demobilized youth… [And] today I no longer want to return to the armed groups.”

“The project took for us to the rental field, and provided us with agricultural inputs and agricultural tools. Apart from that we received broodstock (chickens) for breeding, I became a farmer and breeder, and my life changed within my community.

“At the beginning of the project, everyone received a USD 50 grant. Part of it, I paid for chickens. And today, I have 12 chickens, and a goat. Small-scale farming is very important to me, [it’s] a source of income. I meet my needs without much difficulty, and I am respected in my community.

“As a young person, I have my own field. Sometimes I produce vegetables, other times maize and beans. [And] my income has improved significantly since I have been in this project. Thanks to the various supports of the project (cash grant, distribution of seeds, tillage tools, livestock (chickens) and various trainings received on agricultural techniques and nutrition-sensitive agriculture, I want to continue to fight for good economic autonomy.”

Muhindo’s story demonstrates how small actions can have an enormous impact on an individual’s life. To support the critical work we’re doing in DRC – and around the world – donate to RET today.