20 Years of Congo Initiative:
A Journey of Hope and Transformation Celebrating Two Decades of Impact
In 2005, Congo Initiative was born from a vision: to invest in a new generation of Congolese leaders committed to justice, peace, and transformation. Today, we celebrate 20 years of that vision in action — two decades of equipping women and men to serve their communities with resilience, courage, and love.
Over these years, Congo Initiative has become a faith-inspired movement of hope, touching thousands of lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo and beyond. From education and entrepreneurship to justice and reconciliation, together we have planted seeds of change that continue to grow.
Our Journey
2003
David and Kaswera Kasali, along with friends from the U.S., begin leading pastor workshops through the Church Renewal program. This would lay the foundation for the Congo Initiative.
2004
The Kasalis gathered with Congolese leaders, pastors, and community members and the vision of Congo Initiative was born – a vision anchored in impassioned lament, contextual examination, indigenous ownership and the extraordinary vision of women and men with a personal commitment to a transformed future.
2005
The Kasalis, along with partners from the U.S. – individuals, churches, and foundations – form and establish Congo Initiative USA, as a nonprofit organization.
2007
Congo Initiative launches its flagship program – Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC), a four-year university with triadic training – academic excellence, a work program, and service-learning. 85 students enrolled in the first year.
2011
UCBC holds its first graduation ceremony.
2016
We launch the Advanced Studies Program (ASP) to equip staff and alumni with Master’s/PhDs and strengthen our faculty.
2017
UCBC celebrates 10 years.
2018
Ebola Outbreak and Insecurity relocate UCBC activities to a property in the center of Beni.
2020
COVID Pandemic hits the globe, disrupting programs for a period of time.
2024
We celebrate a remarkable milestone – UCBC’s 1,000 graduates.
2025
Congo Initiative USA celebrates 20th anniversary, UCBC holds its 15th graduation, Dr. David Kasali receives the honor of President Emeritus
Stories of Transformation
Behind every milestone are stories of courage and resilience:
These stories remind us why we began and why our work is more important than ever.
Looking Ahead: The Next 20 Years
The challenges facing Congo are real: cycles of violence, economic hardship and fragile peace. Yet, we believe education and leadership are long-term antidotes to injustice and despair. Our vision for the future includes:
- Expanding UCBC to welcome more changemakers from across Congo.
- Strengthening initiatives that empower women and young leaders.
- Deepening our community development, justice and reconciliation programs.
- Growing partnerships that amplify local solutions and global solidarity.
Together, we can invest in the next generation of leaders who will shape a more just and flourishing Congo.
Join The Celebration
This milestone belongs not only to us, but to every friend, partner, and supporter who has walked this journey. We invite you to:
- Pray and advocate for peace and justice in Congo.
- Share stories of hope from our 20-year journey.
- Give generously to sustain and grow this movement of transformation.
20 Years Behind Us. A Lifetime Ahead.
As we celebrate, we remember: our story is still being written. With faith, courage and hope, we press forward, together.