LOCATION: North Kivu

SITUATION:

Despite the gradual return to peace, the population of eastern DRC continues to experience human rights violations, particularly sexual violence. The consequences for the population are critical. Doctors of the World provides building capacity support within community groups and health institutions.

SOLUTION:

The project continues to enhance the knowledge and skills of psycho-social counsellors, often the first point of call for victims. Doctors of the World supports a sexual violence information centre , where  counsellors are available and visitors are able to discuss their experiences freely. The project has implemented community-based mental health activities in partnership with six Congolese NGOs in Goma and in the surrounding rural area (the activities consist of awareness-raising, psycho-social care and support with family and socio-economic reintegration).

BENEFICIARIES:

3,170 (targeted at 9540)

RESULTS:

310 female victims of sexual violence cared for by 53 psycho-social counsellors trained to support victims.

OUTLOOK:

Having trained a host  of community workers  to support victims, the project looks forward to long-term sustainability by building managerial capacity within community organisations involved in tackling sexual violence (organisations that the counsellors have come from).

Case Study:

Elizabeth, a Psycho-Social Counsellor

"The knowledge and practices I learned have been enriching. No one can ever take them away from me. The training I've received will stay forever with my family, my partner, my children and, of course, with me."