Woman stand up

Strengthening women’s autonomy, resilience and leadership. The programme supports women, particularly those facing the consequences of conflict, violence, precarity and social inequality, so they can build their capacity to make choices, develop their initiatives and take an active part in the life of their communities. In eastern DRC and across the Great Lakes region, women and their children are among the first victims of conflict: displacement, hunger, violence and the loss of livelihoods. Many have endured unprecedented violence without knowing whom to turn to. Yet they are also pillars of their families and communities, and essential actors for peace. “Inuka,” meaning “rise up” in Swahili, expresses the programme’s conviction: every woman holds the strength to rebuild, provided she is supported and recognized. Our ambition To enable every woman to regain her dignity, her power to act and her place in the community, and to make solidarity among women an engine of resilience and peace. Our areas of intervention Basic support and livelihoods: providing food assistance and practical support to meet urgent needs and help women rebuild their lives. Economic empowerment: supporting income-generating activities and women-led initiatives, such as the production of eco-friendly biochar by displaced women. Psychosocial, medical and legal support: offering listening spaces and accompaniment for survivors of violence, to help them overcome trauma and regain hope. Health and dignity: raising awareness of menstrual hygiene and distributing kits to improve the health, autonomy and access to education of women and girls. Leadership and participation: strengthening women’s confidence, skills and voice in community life, local governance and peace processes. Solidarity and volunteering: drawing on the commitment of hundreds of young volunteers who bring comfort and support every day. Our approach Person-centered and participatory, it starts from the needs, choices and abilities of women themselves, with respect for their dignity and confidentiality. It combines material assistance, psychosocial support and leadership development, in connection with the Trauma Healing and Women, Peace and Security programmes, so that solidarity becomes a true community. Expected impact Greater economic autonomy and decision-making capacity for women Dignity, well-being and hope restored for survivors Increased participation of women in community life and local governance More supportive, resilient and inclusive communities