Supporting digital literacy for 100 women in DRC

1. Executive Summary

The “Functional and Digital Literacy for Women in DRC” project, implemented by OGDH ASBL, aims to strengthen the autonomy of 100 women aged 18 to 40 in South Kivu Province, Democratic Republic of Congo. Through a 10-month functional and digital literacy program, the project addresses the urgent need for basic education and digital skills, which are essential today for breaking the cycle of poverty in a sustainable way.

With a total budget of USD 50,000, the project has already received a first symbolic contribution of USD 1, made possible through collaboration with GlobalGiving. This initial support marks the beginning of a strong solidarity dynamic that, with the continued commitment of donors, will enable us to fully achieve the project’s objective.

2. Context and Rationale

South Kivu has been affected for more than a decade by armed conflict, resulting in massive displacement, chronic poverty, and limited access to education and basic social services. Women are among the most affected groups. The female literacy rate is estimated at 39.9%, which severely limits women’s economic opportunities and their participation in social and community life.

In addition, the digital divide further deepens these inequalities. Access to digital tools and training remains extremely limited, preventing women from benefiting from opportunities offered by technology, even basic tools such as smartphones. This situation perpetuates marginalization—an issue this project seeks to address.

3. Project Objectives

Overall Objective:
To contribute to the economic and social empowerment of women in South Kivu through functional and digital literacy.

Specific Objectives:

• Improve basic reading, writing, and numeracy skills for 100 women.
• Strengthen women’s digital skills through practical smartphone use.
• Change community perceptions regarding women’s education and digital inclusion.
• Promote social and economic inclusion of beneficiaries.

4. Project Description and Methodology

The project will run for 10 months and will be implemented in three main phases across selected neighborhoods in South Kivu:

1. Community sensitization and mobilization of beneficiaries.
2. Functional and digital literacy training, adapted to participants’ levels and focused on practical, everyday use.
3. Monitoring, evaluation, and learning, conducted during the final month.

The project is currently in the phase of identifying trainers and learners. Full implementation is scheduled to begin in November 2025.

5. Beneficiaries

• 100 women, aged 18–40, from vulnerable communities in South Kivu.
• Families and the wider community will benefit indirectly from the project’s positive outcomes.

6. Budget Overview

• Total budget: USD 50,000
• Funds raised to date: USD 1, through collaboration with GlobalGiving

The budget will primarily support training activities, beneficiary support, project coordination, and monitoring and evaluation, with a strong commitment to transparency and efficiency.

7. Expected Impact

In the long term, the project will generate:

• Economic impact: women equipped to engage in more stable and better-paid income-generating activities.
• Social impact: increased participation of women in household and community decision-making.
• Educational impact: a solid foundation for lifelong learning and knowledge transfer to children.
• Community impact: empowered women who invest more in their families’ health and education.

8. Project Status and Partnership with GlobalGiving

The partnership with GlobalGiving is a key driver of this project’s success. Although the current contribution is modest, it represents trust and momentum toward broader mobilization. Through this collaboration and donor engagement, we are confident that the fundraising target will be reached.

9. Call to Donors

We extend a heartfelt call to all donors, partners, and supporters: your contribution can directly transform the lives of 100 women and their families. Every donation, regardless of size, brings these women closer to autonomy, dignity, and equal opportunity. Supporting this project means investing in a more just and stable future for South Kivu.

10. Acknowledgements

We express our deep gratitude to all those who have already contributed, and to GlobalGiving for its valuable collaboration. Your early support sends a strong message of hope. Together, we can reach the goal and create lasting impact.