It is in this context that the project “Kesho Bora: Opportunities and Dignity for the People of North Kivu” (Rebuilding Hope: Opportunities and Dignity for the People of North Kivu) was launched. The initiative is funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) and implemented in collaboration with the Salesians of Don Bosco active in the area, the Salesian organisation “International Volunteering for Development” (VIS), “Friends of Children” (AiBi), the local organisation “Kimbilio” and the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS).<\/p>\n
This collaboration enhances operational effectiveness, expands geographical coverage and ensures coordinated implementation on the ground. With a duration of 18 months, the project aims to sustainably improve living conditions and promote the socio-economic reintegration of internally displaced persons and host communities in the city of Goma and in the territories of Nyiragongo and Masisi.<\/p>\n
The programme provides an integrated response combining humanitarian assistance, protection and support for recovery.<\/p>\n
The main objectives are as follows:<\/p>\n
– Meeting essential needs<\/strong> – Support for children and young people in vulnerable situations<\/strong> – Protection of women and promotion of gender equality<\/strong> – Strengthening social cohesion and dialogue<\/strong> By supporting displaced families, returnees and host communities, “Kesho Bora” goes beyond simply responding to immediate needs: it offers a renewed prospect of dignity, security and opportunity to the most vulnerable populations in North Kivu.<\/p>\n In a context where new challenges arise every day, the project demonstrates how well-coordinated humanitarian action can transform lives and strengthen communities’ capacity to rebuild.<\/p>\n
The project directly supports vulnerable families by providing essential goods and starter kits for income-generating activities. These interventions enable beneficiaries to meet their basic needs and work towards greater stability. Vocational training programmes in tailoring, hairdressing, cooking and baking equip young people and adults with practical skills, helping them to generate income and strengthen their self-reliance.<\/p>\n
Given that children and adolescents are particularly affected by the crisis, “Kesho Bora” organises educational, recreational and psychosocial activities in residential and community centres in Goma, Nyiragongo and Masisi. These safe spaces offer opportunities for learning, play and emotional recovery, whilst fostering a renewed sense of security and belonging.<\/p>\n
The project places great emphasis on the protection of women and girls, who are often exposed to violence. Through confidential counselling, the distribution of hygiene kits and awareness-raising campaigns, it helps to prevent gender-based violence and support survivors. At the same time, community initiatives promote positive male role models who respect gender equality, encouraging lasting social change.<\/p>\n
“Kesho Bora” also promotes community dialogue by creating spaces where people can meet, exchange ideas and resolve disputes peacefully. This approach helps to rebuild trust between communities, an essential foundation for long-term stability and collective resilience.<\/p>\n