THE DIGNITY AND RIGHTS OF OLDER PEOPLE IN THE DRC

1. Summary

In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), older persons remain among the most vulnerable groups. Many of them live in extremely precarious conditions, with limited access to healthcare, basic resources, and social protection systems.

In the cities of Bukavu and Goma, persistent insecurity, poverty, and a lack of public awareness about the rights of older persons further worsen their situation.

The project “Dignity and Rights of Older Persons in the DRC” aims to restore dignity, strengthen economic autonomy, and promote the social inclusion of 200 older persons through targeted and inclusive interventions.

With a total budget of USD 40,000, the project is currently in the preparatory phase, and its official launch is planned for November 2025.

2. Context and Justification

In the DRC, few public policies specifically address the needs of older persons. Humanitarian interventions often prioritize other vulnerable groups, leaving older people without adequate and age-appropriate support.

Many face:

• Untreated chronic illnesses
• Malnutrition and food insecurity
• Social isolation
• Age-based discrimination
• Loss of income and economic dependency

Yet older persons represent an invaluable social asset. They possess traditional knowledge, artisanal skills, agricultural expertise, and business experience that can significantly contribute to local development when properly supported and recognized.

3. Project Objectives

General Objective

To promote the dignity, rights, and autonomy of older persons in Bukavu and Goma.

Specific Objectives

• Provide appropriate social and health support
• Deliver training in income-generating skills
• Establish community support networks
• Raise public awareness to combat age-based discrimination
• Strengthen the inclusion of older persons in humanitarian programs

4. Key Activities

• Identification and selection of 200 beneficiaries
• Identification of qualified trainers (currently in progress)
• Delivery of practical age-appropriate training
• Provision of small start-up kits for income-generating activities
• Creation of community solidarity groups
• Awareness sessions on the rights of older persons
• Individual monitoring and follow-up

The project is currently in the phase of identifying trainers and beneficiaries. Its official implementation is planned for November 2025.

5. Expected Results

In the long term, the project will contribute to:

• Strengthened economic autonomy for 200 older persons
• Reduced poverty among beneficiary households
• Improved health conditions through targeted support and care
• Stronger social cohesion through intergenerational learning
• A positive shift in societal perceptions of aging

Recognizing and valuing the skills of older persons will encourage their active participation in community development and strengthen local resilience.

6. Budget Summary

Total budget: USD 40,000

The funds will mainly cover:

• Organization of training sessions
• Support for income-generating activities
• Community awareness campaigns
• Project coordination and monitoring

To date, the project has not yet secured funding. However, through our collaboration with GlobalGiving, we are confident in achieving our financial goal. This international crowdfunding platform offers greater visibility, increased transparency, and access to a global network of donors.

7. Implementation and Accountability Strategy

Our organization is committed to:

• Ensuring transparent and responsible financial management
• Providing regular narrative and financial reports
• Ensuring participatory monitoring with beneficiaries
• Conducting mid-term and final impact evaluations

This partnership with GlobalGiving strengthens our accountability, fundraising capacity, and commitment to effective project management.

8. Resilience and Social Change

Beyond immediate assistance, this project aims to transform mindsets.

It seeks to reposition older persons at the heart of the community—not as a burden, but as active contributors, custodians of knowledge, and pillars of social stability.

Efforts to combat discrimination will help preserve dignity and promote a more inclusive society.

9. Appeal to Donors

Today, we make a sincere appeal to individuals, institutions, and partners of goodwill.

Every contribution, no matter how small, has the power to transform a life. Supporting this project means enabling an older person to regain autonomy, dignity, and a meaningful role within their community.

We express our deep gratitude to all those who have already shown moral support and trust in this initiative. Your confidence strengthens our determination.

We warmly invite donors and partners to join us so that, through our collaboration with GlobalGiving, we can successfully raise USD 40,000 and launch this life-changing project in November 2025.

Together, let us restore hope and dignity to the older persons of Bukavu and Goma.