Posted on Nov 03, 2014
In the vast majority of crimes in DRC, the criminals responsible suffer no legal consequences for their actions. Respondents to ECI’s opinion polling across the DRC who were witnesses to a crime reported that only in one in three had received any form of punishment. Sylvie (name changed) was raped while she was still a […]
Posted on Oct 24, 2014
From 2011 to 2013, ECI polled thousands of people across Congo on issues important to them, including their thoughts on security. In this polling, only 11% of respondents reported feeling ‘completely secure.’ Furthermore, 50% of respondents believed that a stronger national army and police force would be the single most effective way to improve the […]
Posted on Oct 17, 2014
On average, 66% of respondents to ECI’s opinion polling stated that economic development is important to them, making the economy the single highest priority of the Congolese people, even higher than security concerns. And though 45% of respondents believe that the situation will improve, there was a clear regional disparity in economic confidence. People polled […]
Posted on Oct 10, 2014
With challenges to accessing maternal care, conflict, and a high fertility rate, the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the most difficult places in the world to be a mother. The most recent data from the World Bank estimates a maternal mortality rate of 730 deaths per 100,000 live births – the 6th highest […]
Posted on Jul 21, 2014
By Claudine Tsongo ‘Without justice, we will never move forward in Congo. Without accountability and the rule of law, the Congolese people – and above all, Congolese women – will never be able to realize their full potential.’ I’m a lawyer and I’ve seen first-hand how Congolese women, particularly those from rural areas, are disadvantaged and […]
Posted on Jun 30, 2014
By Chouchou Namegabe ‘Women’s rights are human rights. The fundamental liberties of women must be respected and defended, both in Congo and around the world. When those rights are violated, we all have a responsibility to be bold and to reject inequality.’ Women in the Democratic Republic of Congo face enormous challenges. Many are forced […]
Posted on Mar 12, 2014
By Felicien Maisha As a nurse at HEAL Africa hospital in Goma, I experienced the human consequences of war on a daily basis. Vulnerable populations, including women and children, have been disproportionately affected by the fighting in eastern Congo. I saw children as young as seven years old pass through the hospital, often suffering from […]
Posted on Feb 24, 2014
By Sekombi Katondolo Speaking to my friends living abroad over the Christmas period, many were surprised to hear that I spent December watching rap battles, acrobats and fire-eaters in Goma – a city most people tend to associate more with conflict and poverty. Around a month ago, we launched the Buzz Art Festival – a week-long […]
Posted on Jan 30, 2014
By Paul Fagan 2014 looks set to be another exciting year at Eastern Congo Initiative. Since assuming the role of Executive Director five months ago I’ve already witnessed much of the extraordinary work being undertaken by our partners in eastern Congo. We provide grants to Congolese community-based organizations working effectively to create new opportunities for […]
Posted on Dec 05, 2013
‘You can understand my joy and sense of fulfillment at our graduation ceremony…!'