Pukusu Children's Ministries Democratic Republic of Congo

The Context

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has suffered decades of civil war. A democratically elected government is now in place, but the nation remains fragile. An estimated 45,000 people die every month from disease and malnutrition, and from ongoing conflict in the east of the country. Around half of those dying are under the age of five and hundreds of thousands of children now live with little security.

The Project

In a remote area in the west of DRC, Pukusu Children's Ministries is caring for around 300 orphans and vulnerable children in six neighbouring villages. Many have lost parents through conflict or from disease, including AIDS. Church leaders, members and local community leaders are ensuring the children are properly cared for within the community. 
Local host families care for orphaned children, supported by volunteers who visit them, and others living in extreme poverty. Pukusu Children's Ministries helps with school fees and medicines for those who currently can't afford them.

Food production initiatives provide nutritious food and some income for families. Crops such as beans, maize, cassava and nuts, as well as fish breeding, are doing well. Alongside the food production, advice is given on balanced diets and children's health improvement is monitored.

To spread the impact, a team of volunteers are starting to to raise awareness and understanding of effective child care in six new localities.

The Results 

• Around 300 children are being cared for in families and are able to go to school.
• Nutritious food is being produced by the community, leading to children's improved health and thus better concentration at school and enjoyment of life.

BCT’s Involvement

• Guidance and advice in project management and development.
• Financial support for: training in new localities; crop production and fish breeding; medicines.

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