The Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo is the second largest country in Africa with a population of above 95,800,000, considered as if not the naturally richest country in the world, then among the richest yet counted among the poorest country because a large proportion of its population is living below the poverty line, and facing marked inequalities due to the devastating effects of the various conflicts that have plagued the country.

Repetitive and incessant warfare, using rape as a weapon to discourage opposing sides, has caused enormous damage to the civilian population. Practised by all armed groups, Mai-Mai, ADF, M23, among others, for decades and on all age groups (babies as young as 18 months have been counted among the victims), this phenomenon causes major health problems, and has affected most especially the child’s protection and education.

Help a Child DRC at a glance