"On the Road to Empowerment"

September 2011

by Desiree Lwambo

The plight of women in the war and conflict-torn region of the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the most atrocious consequences of the conflict that has ravaged for over ten years now. Women not only suffer from poverty and their traditionally weak status, but they have also become a prime tool of warfare. The atrocities committed against girls and women aim at their complete physical and psychological destruction and through this the destruction of the social fabric of society. Assisting women is therefore also a key element in rebuilding communities and consolidating peace and security in the region.

Since 2005, KfW has been partnering with Heal Africa to assist victims of sexualized violence in Maniema and parts of North Kivu. We are therefore pleased with the continued effort that Heal Africa is putting on increasing the impact of its work for girls and women in the region. This study, which focuses on the economic aspects of reintegration of victims of violence, is one example how this work is reflected and continuously analysed.

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