How does the project “for them” transform female entrepreneurship in the DRC?


** Title: “For them”: a silent revolution at the service of women entrepreneurs in the DRC **

The Democratic Republic of Congo, a country rich in natural resources, faces colossal challenges on the socio-economic level, in particular with regard to the empowerment of women. In this context, the project “For themselves”, initiated by the French Development Agency (AFD) and implemented by Expertise France, represents much more than a simple aid program: it symbolizes a paradigm change for female entrepreneurship in the DRC.

### A holistic approach to empowerment

The main ambition “for them” project is to create an ecosystem favorable to female entrepreneurship in key cities like Kinshasa, Kikwit and Bukavu. By providing technical and financial support to nearly 1,200 women in various sectors such as agrobusiness, digital and event, this project not only improves the professional skills of beneficiaries, but also to redefine their place in society.

The long -term commitment of the Congolese government and AFD, in collaboration with private actors, establishes a collaborative platform where women can exchange ideas, share resources and benefit from a support network. This contrasts with the often isolated traditional approaches that do not take into account group dynamics and mutual mutual aid.

## promising encrypted results

Let us analyze the potential results from this initiative. According to AFD statistics, the economic empowerment of women can lead to a 20% increase in GDP in developing countries. In the DRC, where the female presence on the labor market is less than 50%, the potential for economic growth and job creation is immense.

In addition, a study by the International Labor Organization stresses that companies led by women are often more resilient during economic crises. This could mean not only a reversal to sustainable growth, but also increased stability in contexts often marked by turbulence.

### A voice for each woman: enlightening testimonies

The interview carried out between Jody Daniel Nkashama and several figures of the project, including Artémis Pembele and Laetitia Kabala, highlights poignant stories of resilience and creativity. For example, Laetitia, an entrepreneur in agrobusiness, shares her inspiring career. The resonance of his testimony shows how financial support made it possible not only to improve his business, but also to transform the dynamics within his community, creating jobs and strengthening social ties.

“I did not know how to manage my finances, but thanks to the training I received, I multiplied my turnover,” she said. This kind of route is reflected in the results obtained so far. The growing demand for local products, following this Judaic to empowerment, increases the economic sustainability of projects.

### A model to reproduce

The “for them” project could be considered a showcase or a model to be reproduced not only in the DRC, but also in other African countries faced with similar challenges. Emphasis on the empowerment of women and the creation of sustainable business ecosystems could allow a deep transformation in various socio -political contexts.

Similar initiatives have emerged in other parts of Africa, such as the Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative (WEFI) program in Ghana, which has also recorded positive results in terms of job creation and income. These examples bear witness to an increasing tendency to invest in the female entrepreneurial potential as an engine of economic growth.

### Outlook for the future

It is imperative that public and private actors continue to initiate their resources and know-how to support initiatives such as “for them”. Networking, the increase in investments in education and mentoring, and encouragement to innovation must appear at the top of priorities to ensure that the momentum in favor of female entrepreneurship is transformed into something perennial and revolutionary.

In short, while celebrating the successes of the “for them” project, it is advisable to remain vigilant in the face of persistent challenges and to continue the efforts to create an environment that allows each woman to achieve her potential. The DRC, with its women fighting for their place on the economic scene, could soon become an example to follow for other nations, transforming individual ambitions into collective reality.

In terms of empowerment of women, it seems that the future belongs to those who dare to dream – but only if we take concrete measures to transform these dreams into actions.

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