The hard and dedicated work of committed personalities such as Zagor Mukoko Kanda, Sr Jacky Bukaka-BU-TANGU and Karine Biabola, as well as other actors involved in the field, have given rise in 2021 to an essential space for dialogue and reflection for actors working on the issue of street children in Kinshasa: the Study Circle for the Protection of Children and Families, commonly referred to by the acronym CEPEF.
Under the leadership of Father José Mpundu, this circle brings together social actors working in the educational supervision of street children and youth, with the primary ambition of improving the sharing of experiences and practices in terms of interventions with this vulnerable population. By promoting the adoption of common strategies to address the multiple challenges faced by these children and the associations that support them, CEPEF strives to ensure collective and concerted action in favor of the protection, promotion of rights and socio-economic reintegration of street youth.
One of CEPEF’s central missions lies in strengthening the skills and capacities of its members to enable them to carry out more effective and sustainable actions. The organization also places particular emphasis on establishing child protection mechanisms within communities, by closely involving churches, existing community structures, local authorities and law enforcement.
Thus, the Study Circle for the Protection of Children and Families is gradually establishing itself as an essential pillar of reflection and action in the area of child protection in Kinshasa. By working closely with structures specializing in the defense of children’s rights, CEPEF is an essential partner in achieving common goals for the well-being and development of street children.
In short, CEPEF embodies a concrete example of mobilization and cooperation in the service of the most vulnerable populations, demonstrating that by joining forces and expertise, it is possible to build a better future for each child, regardless of their origin or background.