Violence has again escalated in and around Beni, North Kivu, in recent weeks. Armed attacks—primarily attributed to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF)—have left dozens of civilians killed and many more displaced. Families are grieving, homes and markets have been destroyed and daily life has been deeply disrupted.

These events are not far from UCBC and the communities Congo Initiative serves. Many of our students, staff, and their families come from the very areas affected. Each time violence erupts, our community feels the shock waves: students have to study amidst uncertainty, families face displacement and local church and community leaders are stretched as they help neighbors recover and rebuild.

In the face of this, Congo Initiative’s mission remains steadfast. Through UCBC and our community engagement initiatives, we are equipping a new generation of leaders committed to justice, peacebuilding and community renewal. Our Justice Initiative works alongside city groups to strengthen local resilience and advocate for protection. Our counseling and chaplaincy programs help students and families process trauma. And our broader CI community provides a place of hope, solidarity and vision in a context often defined by conflict.

Your partnership ensures that Congo Initiative can respond with compassion and creativity even in moments of deep crisis. Together, we continue to invest in long-term transformation so that the people of eastern Congo will not only survive these attacks but also build the foundations for peace and renewal.