“Tuko pamoja”
These simple words are more than a slogan. They are spoken often—etched on shirts and sweatshirts worn proudly by students and staff—but their meaning runs far deeper, especially in a region long marked by conflict, where “togetherness” is often defined narrowly by tribe, denomination, or bloodline.
At UCBC, tuko pamoja defines the ethos of the community – students and staff united not by identity, but by faith, sacrifice, and a shared vision for transformation. It is a diverse body that carries each other’s burdens, celebrates each other’s victories, and stands together in seasons of suffering and loss.
This spirit of solidarity surrounded Exaucé, a UCBC student, and her family when a devastating house fire left them with nothing. The UCBC community responded with compassion and tangible support—demonstrating what it means to love not just in word, but in action.
It is the same spirit that upheld the family of Glodie, a second-year student, after her unexpected passing. In the midst of their grief, the community gathered to mourn, to remember, and to comfort—living out the Gospel by being present in love and steadfast in hope.
In these moments of profound loss, the UCBC community lived out the Gospel. They mourned with those who mourn, shared memories, lifted one another up with love and support. They bore one another’s burdens. They leaned not on their own strength, but on the unshakable hope of Christ that binds them together.
Through hardship and trials, the community of UCBC is a reflection of the Kingdom of God, a flame of hope for a brighter, more flourishing future. A community that we can learn from.
Let us continue to walk together in that same spirit, trusting that even in hardship, God is at work in and through His people.
UPDATES
A TRIBUTE TO REV. KAMBALE AMANI PETER
“This weekend, Congo Initiative lost a giant of a man, Rev. Kambale Amani Peter, who entered heaven from Oicha, North Kivu, the Democratic Republic of Congo.
I met Peter at our first Congo Initiative event in Congo in 2003, at which time more than 200,000 displaced Congolese fled from genocide in a neighboring province. It was Congolese churches that took in most of these refugees, providing shelter, food, space for gardens, community, and offering hope. Peter’s church was part of that process.”
HOPE AGAINST ALL HOPE
Dr. David Kasali, UCBC President Emeritus, and Dr. Jean Musavuli, UCBC Academic Dean, lectured at the Oxford Centre for Mission Studies earlier this month on “Hoping Against All Hope: Reflection on the Past, Present and Future of the Democratic Republic of Congo.” Watch the lecture here.
NEW BOARD MEMBER
We are honored to welcome Lukogho Kasomo to the Congo Initiative USA Board of Directors!
Lukogho is a co-founder and managing partner of Congolese Diaspora Impact Strategies. She brings a remarkable background in international business development, U.S. foreign policy, and cross-sector partnerships. Her leadership experience spans from Congress to the private sector, most recently with a Fortune 500 financial services firm, where she led public sector expansion in major U.S. cities.
A passionate advocate, seasoned strategist, and published writer, Lukogho’s insight and dedication to Congo’s global impact will be an incredible asset to our mission.
Read her full bio on our blog.
PAMOJA TALK
Pamoja Talk is UCBC quarterly production by students. It features students discussing a variety of topics. Watch the latest episode!
MEET A UCBC STUDENT
“My journey at UCBC has been an exciting exploration of community and personal growth, enriched by the sharing of ideas and experiences. At UCBC, bilingualism transcends languages to unite hearts, creating a deep integration within the Congolese community. Guided by my faith and Christian teachings, I not only acquired a rigorous training in economics but was also shaped by a community in which commitment and friendship are essential values. Every moment spent at UCBC has been transformative, merging academic knowledge and spiritual development in an adventure of faith and service within the community.”
Laurene Nzurana, Economics
CONGO IN THE NEWS
Congo and Rwanda vow to sign a peace deal on June 27, may end fighting in eastern Congo (PBS)
Congolese rebels want peaceful solution to crisis, UN says (BBC)
US wants Rwandan troops out of Congo before peace deal signed, sources say (Reuters)
World Bank to finance controversial DRC hydropower project, concerns remain (Mongabay)
Effectiveness of Open and Distance Learning in the DRC (UNESCO)
How corruption in DRC Congo undermines global climate goals (Pulitzer Center)
As M23 rebels take hold of eastern Congo, the Islamic State is capitalizing on the chaos (ACLED)
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