Supporting Resilience in Goma, DR Congo, Amid Fragile Peace

For the past few years, our partnership with Remember Youth for Change in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has brought hope, opportunity, and a renewed sense of possibility to youth impacted by one of Africa’s longest-running conflicts.

One of our proudest milestones was receiving a GlobalGiving grant, which enabled us to deliver US$50,000 in humanitarian aid and community-building programs in the Goma region. This funding helped address urgent needs such as food and shelter while also supporting long-term empowerment initiatives like Threads of Transformation, a pilot program that trained six tailoring apprentices in both economic self-sufficiency and creative storytelling.

In early 2025, escalating violence caused by the resurgence of M23 and the increasing presence of Rwandan forces forced us to suspend all formal programming for the safety of our local partner. The situation in Goma deteriorated rapidly, with displacement reaching unprecedented levels, the banking system shutting down, and government institutions ceasing to function. The humanitarian crisis grew, even as global attention remained far too limited.

Now, following the recently signed peace agreement between Rwanda and the DRC, brokered under U.S. mediation, there is cautious optimism. While the true durability of this deal remains to be seen, it has created a moment of opportunity and relative calm in some areas.

In this context, graduates of Remember Youth for Change’s tailoring program have begun gathering once again in their office space in Goma. They are volunteering their time and skills to sew school uniforms for children living in the displacement camps. This grassroots initiative not only helps children regain a sense of dignity and routine through education, but it also allows the tailoring graduates to reconnect with a sense of purpose, community, and hope.

Their efforts are a testament to the spirit of local leadership and solidarity. Even amidst uncertainty, the work of these volunteers reminds us that healing and rebuilding often begin from within communities themselves.

While the overall situation remains fragile and broader development programs are still on hold, our commitment has never wavered. We remain in regular contact with our local partner and continue to support their operational needs.

Donations received through this page will now be used to purchase additional fabric and materials to sew more uniforms for more children in the displacement camps. Funds will be securely forwarded through Airtel’s international mobile payment system.

Together, we can ensure that, even in the most difficult circumstances, communities are not forgotten, and that those striving to make a difference have the tools and support they need to continue.