Title: How the “STEP II” project is transforming the lives of Beni residents through employment opportunities
Introduction :
In the Beni region of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, more than 10,000 people, mainly vulnerable people, are experiencing a significant change in their daily lives thanks to the project for the stabilization of Eastern DRC, also known as “STEP II”. This project, financed by the World Bank and implemented by the Social Fund of the Republic (FSRDC), offers employment opportunities to the inhabitants of Beni through labor-intensive works (THIMO). In this article, we will explore how the “STEP II” project enabled these individuals to provide for their families and improve their socio-economic situation.
The voice of the beneficiaries:
Solange Kyakimwa, a woman displaced for five years due to insecurity in the Beni region, testifies to the positive impact of her commitment to the “STEP II” project. She says that thanks to her job, she is now able to send her children to school, pay her rent and meet other basic needs. This project gave him a glimmer of hope and a real chance of integration in the city of Beni.
Similarly, Jackson Kambale, a young man in his twenties, emphasizes that his involvement in the “STEP II” project allowed him to take care of his parents. Thanks to the money he earns, he has been able to invest in livestock and agriculture, and meet the urgent needs of his family. For him, this project not only improved his own situation, but also that of his parents who had to flee their fields with nothing in Beni.
The concrete results of the project:
The “STEP II” project includes work aimed at cleaning up the streets and avenues of Beni, as well as the construction of essential infrastructure. These labor-intensive works provide employment opportunities for local residents, who can contribute to the transformation of their own environment while earning a stable income.
The crucial role of the project in stabilizing the region:
In addition to the positive impact on the lives of the people concerned, the “STEP II” project plays a key role in the stabilization of eastern DRC. By offering employment opportunities, it helps reduce the social and economic vulnerability of the population of Beni. This reduction in vulnerability helps to strengthen the resilience of communities and create a safer and more stable environment.
Conclusion :
The “STEP II” project for the stabilization of eastern DRC is a concrete example of how local initiatives can have a significant impact on the lives of vulnerable populations.. By providing employment opportunities and improving the region’s infrastructure, this project is a game-changer for many families in Beni. It provides not only a means of livelihood, but also a sense of pride and belonging to the community. This positive experience shows the importance of supporting and promoting such projects to create lasting changes in the regions most affected by insecurity and precariousness.