A Lifeline
Since the beginning of the year, our community in Congo has adapted to the difficult realities shaped by escalating conflict and heightened insecurity. Daily life in Beni has been periodically interrupted but UCBC’s resilient staff and students move forward even amidst tension and fear.
While there are signs of a potential peace agreement, fighting has continued. Moreover, the ADF armed group continues to carry out deadly attacks, often targeting communities in rural areas near the Beni territory. Beni town has changed as well – with an increase in population due to displacement and the relocation of the local government from Goma.
Even when surrounded by these challenges, we witnessed life-changing impact thanks to the continued dedication of staff, students, and community members, as well as partners like you. Here is a snapshot of what we accomplished already in 2025:
Your support has been a lifeline to our team in the face of uncertainty. Though the road ahead remains difficult, so is our resolve. Thank you for standing with us and showing our community in Congo that they are not alone.
UPDATES
NEW CI-USA SUPPORT STAFF
We are pleased to welcome David Nyiringabo! David will work closely with our team in the U.S. and in Congo, providing grant management and impact reporting services.
SECOND NYOTA COHORT BEGINS
UCBC launched the second cohort of its Nyota Leadership Program at the beginning of the month. Nyota is a six-month program developed in partnership with Impact Now aimed at strengthening the leadership skills of women from various sectors including NGOs, private businesses, religious institutions, and other areas of influence.
The opening ceremony featured inspiring speeches from UCBC leaders, testimonials from alumni, and presentations from partners. The new participants enthusiastically expressed their determination to take advantage of this opportunity for personal development and contribute to national progress.
THESIS DEFENSE
On April 16, UCBC held a final thesis defense session on its campus. Students from the Faculty of Information and Communication Sciences and the Faculty of Legal Sciences presented their research and results before a jury, marking a crucial step toward obtaining their degrees.
Congratulations to all candidates for their hard work and determination!
MEET A UCBC GRAD
“I am grateful to God for allowing me to be part of this CI-UCBC community. During my training, I have acquired knowledge both academically and spiritually. I would like to express my gratitude to UCBC for the exceptional training it has provided us. I am committed to using the skills and knowledge acquired in this transformational machine to make a positive contribution to the world.”
Claude Abdala Makonga, Engineering
“The life ahead is full of challenges, but our courage and creativity must distinguish us. Wherever we go, we will shine and light the world, as Mahatma Gandhi reminds us: ‘Be the change you wish to see in the world.’”
Claude Abdala Makonga, 2024 Senior Class President
CONGO IN THE NEWS
Rwanda, Congo agree to draft peace deal by May 2 (The East African)
‘I hope I’ll one day be at peace’: civilians seek mental health help in war-ravaged eastern DRC (The Guardian)
Mining group backed by Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos expands into DR Congo (MSN)
‘The Herds’ begins its journey from central Africa to the Arctic Circle (AP News)
DR Congo bans ex-president’s party over alleged rebel links (BBC)
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