Rebuilding Lives after War and Rape in the DRC

30 April 2010

In the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, many families have been battered by war, rape, poverty and a lack of education. However, a humanitarian group says there’s a way to help families not only deal with the issues, but rise above them.

The eastern DRC has become synonymous with war and rape. In recent years, various rebel groups have attacked and looted villages, driving civilians into the bush to escape. Attempts by government forces and U.N. troops to defeat them have often made matters worse for civilians, as militias launch retaliatory strikes against villagers. But many aid groups working in the region have blamed all warring parties for attacks on civilians.

Weapon of war

Rape is a weapon of war in the Congo. It’s done to subdue, demoralize and humiliate populations. And it spreads HIV/AIDS. The attacks often occur in front of family members. Many women are so brutally assaulted they need surgery to repair the damage. But it doesn’t always work. And then there’s the psychological damage.

FXB FoundationIn Goma FXB founder Albina du Boisrouvray, meets with a woman benefiting from aid program

In the Goma area, the FXB Foundation has created a village of hope and healing, but not one that you would find on any map. FXB founder Albina du Boisrouvray says it’s a village nonetheless.