‘Children should grow up in safety, dignity, and peace’

“I grew up in the northern part of Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo. At the age of four, my family was forced to relocate because of a volcanic eruption. I later lost both of my parents when I was a teenager and had to relocate again in 2009 when the war led by Laurent Nkunda broke out. These events have deeply disrupted my childhood and left me with severe trauma and psychological difficulties. I struggled to remember things and had to repeat my third year of primary school. But thanks to God, with the support of my family I gradually rebuilt my life and regained my confidence and sense of normalcy.

The current situation in our country is extremely unsafe for children. Since the escalation of the M23 conflict in january 2025, many of them have been displaced, separated from their families, or have been exposed to economic exploitation, sexual violence and recruitment by armed groups. They are traumatized and find it hard to trust people. I know what it’s like to struggle with emotional and psychological distress after experiencing trauma. That is why I am committed to helping these children so that they do not have to suffer like I did.

I care deeply about children. As a Community Facilitator for Help a Child I help them recover from the effects of war, violence and abuse. Our Child Friendly Spaces are essential because they provide a safe and protective environment where children can express themselves freely. These spaces help children recover from trauma and accept themselves regardless of their vulnerabilities. Children get to play creative and recreational games together and do educational and psychosocial activities that support their well-being. While Early Childhood Development (ECD) activities focus on children aged 0 to 5 years to help stimulate their development and abilities. We also help children reunite with their families.

I was deeply touched by the story of Diane, a 14-year-old girl. While she was searching for food for her family she was shot by a soldier. By the grace of God she survived. Diane was first treated at the Rusayo Health Centre and was later referred to CBCA Hospital for specialized care. Two months later she was discharged from the hospital. One day Diane visited our Child Friendly Space and shared her story with us. I was amazed to see how cheerful, courageous, and confident she was, despite her disability. She told me she was determined to go back to school, become a doctor, and help people who have been injured by gunfire. Today Diane teaches songs and creative games to other children. For me and many others she is a role model of resilience.

My dream for the children of the Democratic Republic of the Congo is for them to grow up in safety, dignity, and peace and not be affected by violence. So that they can receive education, be surrounded by their families and live carefree just like many other children in the world.”