THE DIGNITY AND RIGHTS OF OLDER PEOPLE IN THE DRC

1. Context and Justification of the Project

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, older people represent a population that is too often forgotten by social policies and humanitarian programs. They mostly live in precarious conditions, with limited access to healthcare, nutrition, and community support.
In the cities of Bukavu and Goma, this situation is worsened by insecurity, poverty, and a general lack of awareness about the rights of older people. Many suffer from chronic illnesses, malnutrition, and social isolation.

Despite their vulnerability, older adults possess valuable knowledge and experience that can contribute to community development. This project aims to restore their dignity, protect their rights, and strengthen their autonomy.

2. General Objective

To promote the dignity, rights, and social inclusion of older people in Bukavu and Goma through concrete actions that provide care, support, and recognition of their skills.

3. Specific Objectives

• Ensure fair access to appropriate healthcare for older people.
• Establish community and social support networks to reduce isolation.
• Provide vocational training for income-generating activities to enhance economic independence.
• Raise community and institutional awareness about the rights and respect of older people.
• Advocate for anti-discrimination policies and local inclusion of older adults.

4. Expected Results

• 200 older adults will directly benefit from health and social support.
• Noticeable improvement in health and living conditions of beneficiaries.
• Creation of community support groups promoting intergenerational solidarity.
• Reduction in poverty rates among older people in target areas.
• Strengthened social cohesion and positive changes in perceptions toward aging.

5. Key Project Activities

1. Awareness campaigns on the rights and dignity of older people.
2. Mobile medical consultations and distribution of essential medicines.
3. Creation of self-help groups and community centers for older adults.
4. Simple vocational trainings (handicrafts, urban agriculture, small businesses).
5. Advocacy with local authorities for the inclusion of older people in social programs.

6. Project Duration

The project will run for 12 months, with a mid-term evaluation and continuous monitoring of impact on beneficiaries.

7. Estimated Budget

The total estimated budget is USD 40,000.
This amount will cover health activities, training, awareness campaigns, logistics, and monitoring and evaluation.
To date, no funds have yet been collected, but we are confident that, with the support of GlobalGiving and our generous partners, we will reach our financial goal.

8. Partnership with GlobalGiving

Through our partnership with GlobalGiving, this project will gain greater international visibility, a secure donation platform, and technical support to ensure transparency and sustainability.
This strategic collaboration will strengthen our ability to quickly reach beneficiaries and ensure rigorous monitoring of funds and results.

9. Call for International Solidarity

We are making a heartfelt appeal to all donors, organizations, companies, and individuals who believe in human dignity.
Every contribution, big or small, will help bring hope to hundreds of forgotten older people.
By supporting this project, you are giving more than material aid—you are restoring dignity to a generation that has given so much.

10. Acknowledgments

We extend our sincere gratitude to all those who have already shown their moral or material support, and to GlobalGiving for its valuable collaboration.
Thanks to your solidarity, we firmly believe that together, we can build a fairer, more inclusive society that respects its elders.

11. Conclusion

This project represents a concrete step toward recognizing the rights and dignity of older people in the DRC.
Investing in their well-being means investing in the wisdom and legacy of an entire nation.
We count on your commitment to help turn this vision into reality.