Conflict is a normal part of life. Violence is not. This story is of 15-year-old Benedict*. He had a bad day at school and an argument with his father. But instead of waking up the next morning, safe in his home and ready to start again, he was forced into a militia group.
To commemorate World Radio Day, we offer a glimpse into a thriving network of community radio clubs in eastern DR Congo. Scroll through the photo series from photographer Greg Funnell to see how the local radio is saving lives and building livelihoods in the region.
During a recent visit to DR Congo, Claire May (Head of Programme Funding) interviewed 30-year-old Blaise, a former combatant who now works for our partner Centre Résolution Conflits (CRC) rescuing and reintegrating soldiers from the bush. Here is his story.
Daniel Tamene, our Programme Finance Manager, recently travelled to the Democratic Republic of Congo to visit our partner Centre Resolution Conflits (CRC). He accompanied CRC into the bush to see first-hand the negotiation process they manage every time they rescue and resettle child soldiers. Here is Daniel’s exclusive report from the field.
We have just received news from the field announcing the successful release of 23 child soldiers in DR Congo. We have been working tirelessly over the past week to ensure their safe release and return.
Giving child soldiers the chance of a decent life after the horrors of violent conflict is a crucial building block of long-term peace. Our partner in DR Congo, Centre Résolution Conflits, works with village leaders to makes sure former child soldiers have something to come back to.
Mathew van Lierop, Peace Direct’s Head of Operations, visits the Marche de Paix – the Peace Market – in DR Congo. Built by former fighters, with help from Peace Direct, it is giving people a chance of a new life, building community interdependence, and strengthening inter-ethnic understanding.
Alana Poole writes about her time time volunteering with one of Peace Direct’s partner organisations in DR Congo, and about the determination and courage of the local peacebuilders working to bring end violence in Congo.
“I was not sure of what to do with my life with all the stigma, abuse and lack of education. But with the training and help I got from CNSJ, I can now say that I have gained hope for the future.” Oketta smiles with relief, a 15-year-old rescued from the horrors of the Lord’s Resistance Army in Uganda.
Carolyn Hayman, Peace Direct’s Chief Executive, reports from her visit last week to DR Congo. She met with Peace Direct partners providing free and fair access to justice for local communities, and offering ex-combatants a new life away from violence.