Welcome to
Rose Mapendo Foundation
STRONGER WOMEN, STRONGER NATIONS PROGRAM
Through the Stronger Women, Stronger Nations Program, women break the isolation of war, conflict, and gender discrimination to realize their own power. As they form connections in class, women learn to save, build businesses, understand their rights, improve their health, and change societal rules. They pass this knowledge on to their families and communities — creating a ripple effect for generations.
When supported by her peers and provided with the right resources and opportunities, even the most marginalized woman can develop the confidence and skills to transform her life, family, and community. In the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which has grappled with wars, civil strife, and multiple rebellions since 1996, women and girls suffer disproportionately from high violence and extreme poverty. At the same time, services such as health care, psychosocial support, security, and justice for survivors of violence are limited.
Women for Women International has developed a program that offers women in eastern DRC a constructive, dignified way to regain control of their lives. With your support, our foundational training helps women know and defend their rights, influence decisions at home and in their communities, initiate activities that generate income, and save money for the future, contributing to economic self-sufficiency in their lives and their families. Since 2013, the Women for Rose Mapendo Foundation – Democratic Republic of the Congo has served more than 1000 women through our yearlong program in eastern Congo’s North and South Kivu provinces.
WHAT IS HAPPENING
IN THE CONGO?
Today the slaughter of over 6.9 million people continues in the eastern African region. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remains trapped in a cycle of ethnic violence that results in the kidnapping of children and the use of rape and sexual violence as weapons of control and intimidation. Every day, 45,000 people are affected by this tribal warfare, leaving thousands of women, children, and families abandoned, broken, and in total despair.
There are those who believe that some human lives are worth more than others. Rose Mapendo is not one of them. As a victim of unimaginable violence, Rose understands the struggle to remain hopeful. Through a spiritual and incredible journey, she has transformed from a victim into an inspiring testimony that what seems impossible, is possible.
Acting as a voice for the voiceless, she is working to create a better future for her people, and for the world. If she can be here today against all things possible, then she can create the same possibility for other women.
Watch this short video to better understand Rose Mapendo’s vision & how you can make a difference.
Rose Mapendo has been recognized around the world for the strength and courage she possesses after enduring such a harrowing journey. Today she has made it a point to forgive those who caused her suffering and move forward toward creating a better future filled with peace and hope.
Every achievement and award she receives is an instrumental gift from God that allows Rose to inspire others to make a difference in the lives of a woman, a child, a family, and the world. Take an up close and personal look at the humanitarian work Rose is accomplishing every day.