JRS supports child refugees in DRC

Welcome to the Jesuit Refugee Service Project in the DRC

The Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) has launched a groundbreaking project in the Democratic Republic of Congo to bring education to children and empower vulnerable households affected by ongoing conflicts.

By Sr. Katleho Khang, SNJM

Recent reports from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees reveal that the resurgence of violence in DRC’s North-Kivu province has led to the displacement of nearly 1 million people since March 2023, with additional displacement in South Kivu and Ituri provinces.

The impact of armed and ethnic conflicts has been particularly harsh on civilians, with children bearing the brunt of the humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC.

JRS is on a mission to ensure that education and protection reach as many children as possible, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

In a recent interview with Vatican News, Victor Setibo, JRS regional director, highlighted the organization’s commitment to supporting and safeguarding the rights of refugees, especially children and teenagers, amidst this dire humanitarian situation.

The JRS Structured Child Protection Programme is actively supporting children and adolescents from displaced communities in Mugunga, Masisi, and Minova, enhancing their psychosocial well-being and providing a safe space for learning and growth, while also assisting vulnerable households in building resilience and increasing their income.

Supported by JRS USA, this new project aims to directly impact over 10,000 children, with plans to rehabilitate infrastructure for 500 secondary school students, distribute menstrual hygiene kits to 1,500 girls, engage 4,500 girls in child-friendly activities, and train 45 women in monitoring and crisis management using a community-based child protection approach.

While significant strides have been made in providing much-needed services, there is still a long road ahead to meet the needs of refugees in the DRC.

“Our goal is to protect these children from becoming victims of abuse and violence in the community,” concluded Mr. Setibo. “This project is dedicated to securing a brighter future for them.”

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