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Congo Initiative

Congo Initiative equips the rising generation through transformative education for a flourishing Congo.

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Justin Hubbard

A Rising Generation

Dec 30, 2024

A Rising Generation

December 30, 2024 by Justin Hubbard

Filed Under: Blog

2024 Advent Reflections

Nov 26, 2024
Join us this Advent season as we reflect and embrace the reality of a God with us. ... Read More →

2024 Advent Reflections

November 26, 2024 by Justin Hubbard

Join us this Advent season as we reflect and embrace the reality of a God with us. … Read More →

Filed Under: Blog

“[We] must side with the truth, not the oppressor.”

May 18, 2023
For the first time in six years, UCBC hosted the International Justice Conference with UCBC law students and members of the International Association of Christian Jurists (AIJC). The gathering, which took place in March, was the sixth iteration of the conference and the joy at being together once again was evident. CI-USA board member, Christen […]

“[We] must side with the truth, not the oppressor.”

May 18, 2023 by Justin Hubbard

For the first time in six years, UCBC hosted the International Justice Conference with UCBC law students and members of the International Association of Christian Jurists (AIJC). The gathering, which took place in March, was the sixth iteration of the conference and the joy at being together once again was evident. CI-USA board member, Christen […]

Filed Under: Testimonials

More than a diploma

Mar 21, 2023
An air of intense expectancy and excitement charged the normally quiet late afternoon stillness and heat at Beni’s airport. The students of Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC), together with faculty and leaders, had flocked to the airport awaiting a flight from Kinshasa with the university’s Rector, Dr. Honoré Bunduki Kwany. He stepped off the […]

More than a diploma

March 21, 2023 by Justin Hubbard

An air of intense expectancy and excitement charged the normally quiet late afternoon stillness and heat at Beni’s airport. The students of Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC), together with faculty and leaders, had flocked to the airport awaiting a flight from Kinshasa with the university’s Rector, Dr. Honoré Bunduki Kwany. He stepped off the […]

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Kahasa Mulihavya

Mar 17, 2023
In January 2023, Benediction Mulihavya Kahasa celebrated with her peers the launch of the academic year. Kahasa comes from Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu. She learned about UCBC through her brother who attends the university and spoke highly of the institution’s values and commitment to excellence. She wanted to study in an environment […]

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Kahasa Mulihavya

March 17, 2023 by Justin Hubbard

In January 2023, Benediction Mulihavya Kahasa celebrated with her peers the launch of the academic year. Kahasa comes from Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu. She learned about UCBC through her brother who attends the university and spoke highly of the institution’s values and commitment to excellence. She wanted to study in an environment […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: David Bujiriri

Mar 4, 2023
Undoubtedly, the best part of working at UCBC is rubbing shoulders with the creative young changemakers who study there. I want to introduce you to one of these excellent young adults, David Bujiriri, or as he is called by his friends, Buj (pronounced “oo” as in boot). Buj is a junior computer engineering major from […]

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: David Bujiriri

March 4, 2023 by Justin Hubbard

Undoubtedly, the best part of working at UCBC is rubbing shoulders with the creative young changemakers who study there. I want to introduce you to one of these excellent young adults, David Bujiriri, or as he is called by his friends, Buj (pronounced “oo” as in boot). Buj is a junior computer engineering major from […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Recent Insecurity and Violence in Eastern Congo

Feb 2, 2023
On Wednesday January 25th, a bomb exploded in the Macampagne market in Beni injuring 17 people. Just a week earlier on January 15th, a bomb detonated during Sunday service at a Pentecostal church in Kasindi killing 15 people and injuring dozens of others. The village of Makugwe was also attacked. 23 people were killed and […]

Recent Insecurity and Violence in Eastern Congo

February 2, 2023 by Justin Hubbard

On Wednesday January 25th, a bomb exploded in the Macampagne market in Beni injuring 17 people. Just a week earlier on January 15th, a bomb detonated during Sunday service at a Pentecostal church in Kasindi killing 15 people and injuring dozens of others. The village of Makugwe was also attacked. 23 people were killed and […]

Filed Under: Testimonials

JOIN OUR TEAM: COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

Jan 19, 2023
ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW: Congo Initiative is a global community of Congolese leaders and international partners united for the transformation of lives and a flourishing Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Congo Initiative USA invests in higher education, leadership development, and community transformation through our partner organization Congo Initiative – Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (CI-UCBC) located in […]

JOIN OUR TEAM: COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

January 19, 2023 by Justin Hubbard

ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW: Congo Initiative is a global community of Congolese leaders and international partners united for the transformation of lives and a flourishing Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Congo Initiative USA invests in higher education, leadership development, and community transformation through our partner organization Congo Initiative – Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (CI-UCBC) located in […]

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

Number of People Killed By Violence in Eastern Congo

Dec 29, 2022
  Source: Kivu Security Tracker 

Number of People Killed By Violence in Eastern Congo

December 29, 2022 by Justin Hubbard

  Source: Kivu Security Tracker 

Filed Under: Blog

Equip Educators, Transform Education

Dec 15, 2022
With a desire to focus on faculty development and bring together a cadre of permanent staff highly committed to the vision of UCBC, UCBC launched an Advanced Studies Program (ASP) in 2016. The goal of this program is to financially and institutionally support 25 UCBC faculty and staff members to earn Masters and PhDs by […]

Equip Educators, Transform Education

December 15, 2022 by Justin Hubbard

With a desire to focus on faculty development and bring together a cadre of permanent staff highly committed to the vision of UCBC, UCBC launched an Advanced Studies Program (ASP) in 2016. The goal of this program is to financially and institutionally support 25 UCBC faculty and staff members to earn Masters and PhDs by […]

Filed Under: Blog

Taking wobbly steps together

Dec 5, 2022
Have you ever seen a child take its first steps? Those wobbly, wide-eyed, arms-in-the-air steps that propel them from babyhood into the rest of their life? Imagine being a young parent in Beni, cautiously watching your first child take their first steps on the swept-clean dirt floor of your cement-brick home. The wonder, terror, excitement […]

Taking wobbly steps together

December 5, 2022 by Justin Hubbard

Have you ever seen a child take its first steps? Those wobbly, wide-eyed, arms-in-the-air steps that propel them from babyhood into the rest of their life? Imagine being a young parent in Beni, cautiously watching your first child take their first steps on the swept-clean dirt floor of your cement-brick home. The wonder, terror, excitement […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

2022 Advent Reflections

Nov 23, 2022
[pdf-embedder url=”https://congoinitiative.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Congo-Initiative-2022-Advent-Reflections-1.pdf” title=”Congo Initiative – 2022 Advent Reflections”]

2022 Advent Reflections

November 23, 2022 by Justin Hubbard

[pdf-embedder url=”https://congoinitiative.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Congo-Initiative-2022-Advent-Reflections-1.pdf” title=”Congo Initiative – 2022 Advent Reflections”]

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

GIVING TUESDAY: EMPOWER THROUGH EDUCATION

Nov 16, 2022

GIVING TUESDAY: EMPOWER THROUGH EDUCATION

November 16, 2022 by Justin Hubbard

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Let Your Light Shine

Nov 15, 2022
Every person is given a lifetime opportunity to impact people and their community because we are all endowed by God with unfathomable potentials. At CI-UCBC, our commitment is to unleash every student and staff member’s potential to participate in creating thriving communities, a just society and a flourishing nation. As you go into the professional […]

Let Your Light Shine

November 15, 2022 by Justin Hubbard

Every person is given a lifetime opportunity to impact people and their community because we are all endowed by God with unfathomable potentials. At CI-UCBC, our commitment is to unleash every student and staff member’s potential to participate in creating thriving communities, a just society and a flourishing nation. As you go into the professional […]

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

SHAPING LAND REFORM FOR A MORE PEACEFUL CONGO

Jun 7, 2022
Challenges with land policy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo date back to the late 19th century, when King Leopold of Belgium declared all “vacant land” in DR Congo as his own (Congo Free State), creating two parallel systems of land management: one system administered by the Belgian colonial authorities and the other established […]

SHAPING LAND REFORM FOR A MORE PEACEFUL CONGO

June 7, 2022 by Justin Hubbard

Challenges with land policy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo date back to the late 19th century, when King Leopold of Belgium declared all “vacant land” in DR Congo as his own (Congo Free State), creating two parallel systems of land management: one system administered by the Belgian colonial authorities and the other established […]

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

When Women Rise

Jun 7, 2022
Congolese women and children bear the brunt of the crippling effects of hundreds of years of colonialism, war, and exploitation. Socio-cultural norms that favor patriarchy exacerbate poverty, domestic abuse, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Violence against women has sadly increased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, limited awareness and adherence to women’s […]

When Women Rise

June 7, 2022 by Justin Hubbard

Congolese women and children bear the brunt of the crippling effects of hundreds of years of colonialism, war, and exploitation. Socio-cultural norms that favor patriarchy exacerbate poverty, domestic abuse, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Violence against women has sadly increased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, limited awareness and adherence to women’s […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Introducing Congo Initiative – USA’s New Executive Director

Jan 18, 2022
Dear Friends of Congo Initiative, On behalf of the board of directors of Congo Initiative – USA (CI-USA), we’re excited to share the result of our Executive Director search. After conducting an external search and interviewing a slate of three finalists, one of whom was our acting Executive Director, Justin Hubbard, we have confirmed Justin […]

Introducing Congo Initiative – USA’s New Executive Director

January 18, 2022 by Justin Hubbard

Dear Friends of Congo Initiative, On behalf of the board of directors of Congo Initiative – USA (CI-USA), we’re excited to share the result of our Executive Director search. After conducting an external search and interviewing a slate of three finalists, one of whom was our acting Executive Director, Justin Hubbard, we have confirmed Justin […]

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

2021 IMPACT VIDEO

Dec 28, 2021
[ci-button link=”https://congoinitiative.org/give”]MAKE A YEAR-END GIFT[/ci-button]

2021 IMPACT VIDEO

December 28, 2021 by Justin Hubbard

[ci-button link=”https://congoinitiative.org/give”]MAKE A YEAR-END GIFT[/ci-button]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Merry Christmas from David and Kaswera Kasali

Dec 23, 2021


Merry Christmas from David and Kaswera Kasali

December 23, 2021 by Justin Hubbard



Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

RESPITE, HEALING, AND OPPORTUNITY FOR THE INTERNALLY DISPLACED (IDP)

Aug 19, 2021
When Bethesda Counseling Center Director, Noé Kasali, was driving home one day, he saw three kids selling baskets on the side of the road. Noé stopped to purchase a basket for his home. As he spoke with the kids, he asked them where they were from. They responded, “We are displaced from the Oriental Province.” […]

RESPITE, HEALING, AND OPPORTUNITY FOR THE INTERNALLY DISPLACED (IDP)

August 19, 2021 by Justin Hubbard

When Bethesda Counseling Center Director, Noé Kasali, was driving home one day, he saw three kids selling baskets on the side of the road. Noé stopped to purchase a basket for his home. As he spoke with the kids, he asked them where they were from. They responded, “We are displaced from the Oriental Province.” […]

Filed Under: Testimonials

JOIN OUR MONTHLY GIVING PROGRAM

May 15, 2021

JOIN OUR MONTHLY GIVING PROGRAM

May 15, 2021 by Justin Hubbard

Filed Under: Featured

Social Impacts of Ebola in Congo: Panel Discussion with Texas A&M University

Mar 25, 2021
We are excited to share an insightful panel discussion about the Ebola outbreak and the Bethesda Counseling Center. Bethesda’s director Noé Kasali and Bethesda beneficiaries participated in a symposium facilitated by Glasscock Center and Scowcraft Institute of International Affairs Texas A&M University. The Symposium, The Long-term Impacts of Pandemics: Ongoing Disruptions to Societies, Families, and […]

Social Impacts of Ebola in Congo: Panel Discussion with Texas A&M University

March 25, 2021 by Justin Hubbard

We are excited to share an insightful panel discussion about the Ebola outbreak and the Bethesda Counseling Center. Bethesda’s director Noé Kasali and Bethesda beneficiaries participated in a symposium facilitated by Glasscock Center and Scowcraft Institute of International Affairs Texas A&M University. The Symposium, The Long-term Impacts of Pandemics: Ongoing Disruptions to Societies, Families, and […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Virtual Event

Mar 15, 2021

Virtual Event

March 15, 2021 by Justin Hubbard

Filed Under: Testimonials

SEMINAR RECORDINGS: A REFLECTION ON AFRICAN CHRISTIANITY AND THE GLOBAL CHURCH

Mar 1, 2021
In January and February, we held a four-part seminar series to reflect and learn together with a host of CI friends who shared their wealth of experience in strengthening the church in Africa and beyond. Through this four-part seminar, we hope participants were equipped to meaningfully connect with their communities, to the African Church, and […]

SEMINAR RECORDINGS: A REFLECTION ON AFRICAN CHRISTIANITY AND THE GLOBAL CHURCH

March 1, 2021 by Justin Hubbard

In January and February, we held a four-part seminar series to reflect and learn together with a host of CI friends who shared their wealth of experience in strengthening the church in Africa and beyond. Through this four-part seminar, we hope participants were equipped to meaningfully connect with their communities, to the African Church, and […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

What Gives Us Hope?

Dec 23, 2020
A graduation at the Christian Bilingual University of Congo (UCBC) is always an emotional moment for Kaswera and me. Each year, we are overcome with joy as we celebrate the dedication of our courageous students, the perseverance of our gifted staff, and the faithfulness of all who support them – parents, community partners, and friends […]

What Gives Us Hope?

December 23, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

A graduation at the Christian Bilingual University of Congo (UCBC) is always an emotional moment for Kaswera and me. Each year, we are overcome with joy as we celebrate the dedication of our courageous students, the perseverance of our gifted staff, and the faithfulness of all who support them – parents, community partners, and friends […]

Filed Under: Blog

Invest in the future of Congo

Dec 18, 2020
This year, Congo Initiative (CI) celebrated 15 years of God’s faithfulness and the hope and resiliency of our community in Congo. We also celebrated your compassion and generosity as we continue to work together for the transformation of lives and communities in a part of the world often forgotten.  2020 was a disruptive year for […]

Invest in the future of Congo

December 18, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

This year, Congo Initiative (CI) celebrated 15 years of God’s faithfulness and the hope and resiliency of our community in Congo. We also celebrated your compassion and generosity as we continue to work together for the transformation of lives and communities in a part of the world often forgotten.  2020 was a disruptive year for […]

Filed Under: Featured

Together, we are writing a new story in Congo

Dec 11, 2020


Together, we are writing a new story in Congo

December 11, 2020 by Justin Hubbard



Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Lesson 3: Stigmatization interferes with the joy of healing

Dec 7, 2020
Recently, I was taking a walk with my wife and our children when we heard men yelling from the top of a truck “corona, corona, corona!” My wife being an American, is perceived as a carrier of COVID-19. This one-time incident that I faced with my family is a daily occurrence in the lives of […]

Lesson 3: Stigmatization interferes with the joy of healing

December 7, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Recently, I was taking a walk with my wife and our children when we heard men yelling from the top of a truck “corona, corona, corona!” My wife being an American, is perceived as a carrier of COVID-19. This one-time incident that I faced with my family is a daily occurrence in the lives of […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Lesson 2: The power of community participation

Nov 28, 2020
At the beginning of the Ebola outbreak in August 2018, national and international experts were deployed in Beni to tackle the virus. Many of these people quickly started developing the narrative that people in Beni didn’t want to cooperate with the Ebola response. Bethesda carried out a survey around people’s perception of the Ebola outbreak […]

Lesson 2: The power of community participation

November 28, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

At the beginning of the Ebola outbreak in August 2018, national and international experts were deployed in Beni to tackle the virus. Many of these people quickly started developing the narrative that people in Beni didn’t want to cooperate with the Ebola response. Bethesda carried out a survey around people’s perception of the Ebola outbreak […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Hope for Africa

Nov 16, 2020
Is there hope for Africa? This question has shaped much of Dr. David Kasali’s life and work as an academic and theological thinker and his years of leadership experience across Africa. Come and hear why he believes that the answer is a resounding “yes!” Please join us online for our DR Congo Discussion Group on […]

Hope for Africa

November 16, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Is there hope for Africa? This question has shaped much of Dr. David Kasali’s life and work as an academic and theological thinker and his years of leadership experience across Africa. Come and hear why he believes that the answer is a resounding “yes!” Please join us online for our DR Congo Discussion Group on […]

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

Lesson 1: Grieving When You Can’t Say Goodbye

Oct 29, 2020
At the beginning of the Ebola outbreak in Beni, Democratic Republic of Congo, accepting and coping with a whole range of social and cultural changes was devastating. People could not shake hands, hug, or touch one another. However, the hardest part of the Ebola outbreak for many people was the experience of “safe and dignified […]

Lesson 1: Grieving When You Can’t Say Goodbye

October 29, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

At the beginning of the Ebola outbreak in Beni, Democratic Republic of Congo, accepting and coping with a whole range of social and cultural changes was devastating. People could not shake hands, hug, or touch one another. However, the hardest part of the Ebola outbreak for many people was the experience of “safe and dignified […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Paluku’s Path to Freedom

Oct 12, 2020
On April 4th, 2019, high school student Paluku was walking home when he passed the local radio station in the rural town of Oicha. Out of nowhere, the station director came running out of the compound shouting “mwizi” [“thief” in Swahili], apprehended him, and took him to the local police where he stayed for a […]

Paluku’s Path to Freedom

October 12, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

On April 4th, 2019, high school student Paluku was walking home when he passed the local radio station in the rural town of Oicha. Out of nowhere, the station director came running out of the compound shouting “mwizi” [“thief” in Swahili], apprehended him, and took him to the local police where he stayed for a […]

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

Career Opportunity: Executive Director, CI-USA

Sep 15, 2020
Congo Initiative is an envisioned community of Christ-centered Congolese leaders and global partners united for the transformation of lives and a flourishing Democratic Republic of Congo. The mission of Congo Initiative USA is to promote Christian higher education, leadership formation, and community transformation in the DRC by providing financial and personnel support for Cl’s founding […]

Career Opportunity: Executive Director, CI-USA

September 15, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Congo Initiative is an envisioned community of Christ-centered Congolese leaders and global partners united for the transformation of lives and a flourishing Democratic Republic of Congo. The mission of Congo Initiative USA is to promote Christian higher education, leadership formation, and community transformation in the DRC by providing financial and personnel support for Cl’s founding […]

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

Celebrating 15 Years: Kawa with Congo

Aug 31, 2020
Join Us! Please join your friends in Congo for a morning of coffee (“kawa”) and VIRTUAL (online) celebration on one of three Saturdays in September. Grab a cup of coffee or tea to enjoy during the celebration! You will have the opportunity to see and hear firsthand the impact Congo Initiative has made in eastern […]

Celebrating 15 Years: Kawa with Congo

August 31, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Join Us! Please join your friends in Congo for a morning of coffee (“kawa”) and VIRTUAL (online) celebration on one of three Saturdays in September. Grab a cup of coffee or tea to enjoy during the celebration! You will have the opportunity to see and hear firsthand the impact Congo Initiative has made in eastern […]

Filed Under: Featured

A Message and Prayer of Hope

Jul 16, 2020

A Message and Prayer of Hope

July 16, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Filed Under: Blog

In Memory of Bob McAllister

Jul 8, 2020
CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF BOB MCALLISTER: April 21, 1925 – April 29, 2020 - Bob McAllister was a man dedicated to the call of God on his life and served along with his wife, Alma, as missionaries in the Democratic Republic of Congo for over 40 years. He was a man endowed with incredible tradesman skills and dedicated to the call of God on his life. Though he grew up in Belfast, Northern Ireland, he was born in Philadelphia and served in the U.S. military during WWII.  ... Read More →

In Memory of Bob McAllister

July 8, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF BOB MCALLISTER: April 21, 1925 – April 29, 2020 – Bob McAllister was a man dedicated to the call of God on his life and served along with his wife, Alma, as missionaries in the Democratic Republic of Congo for over 40 years. He was a man endowed with incredible tradesman skills and dedicated to the call of God on his life. Though he grew up in Belfast, Northern Ireland, he was born in Philadelphia and served in the U.S. military during WWII. 
… Read More →

Filed Under: Blog

CI-USA Leadership Transition Announcement

Jun 22, 2020
After 12 remarkable years of outstanding, Christ-honoring, creative, and compassionate leadership, Cullen Rodgers-Gates (pictured), the Executive Director of Congo Initiative USA, is passing on the baton of leadership. On behalf of the CI-USA Board of Directors and the entire Congo Initiative family across the world, I want to express our profound gratitude to Cullen for […]

CI-USA Leadership Transition Announcement

June 22, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

After 12 remarkable years of outstanding, Christ-honoring, creative, and compassionate leadership, Cullen Rodgers-Gates (pictured), the Executive Director of Congo Initiative USA, is passing on the baton of leadership. On behalf of the CI-USA Board of Directors and the entire Congo Initiative family across the world, I want to express our profound gratitude to Cullen for […]

Filed Under: Blog

Why I Returned to Congo

Jun 8, 2020
Developing sustainable businesses in eastern Congo is no small feat. A fragile infrastructure, ongoing insecurity, deadly outbreaks such as Ebola, and now the global pandemic makes business and even daily life in Congo hard. That is why UCBC alum, Butoto Mahinduzi, is not surprised when he is asked “Why did you come back to Congo?” […]

Why I Returned to Congo

June 8, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Developing sustainable businesses in eastern Congo is no small feat. A fragile infrastructure, ongoing insecurity, deadly outbreaks such as Ebola, and now the global pandemic makes business and even daily life in Congo hard. That is why UCBC alum, Butoto Mahinduzi, is not surprised when he is asked “Why did you come back to Congo?” […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

WE STAND IN SOLIDARITY

Jun 4, 2020
Congo Initiative stands in solidarity with the Black community and with protestors raising their voices calling for justice and an end to racism.... Read More →

WE STAND IN SOLIDARITY

June 4, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Congo Initiative stands in solidarity with the Black community and with protestors raising their voices calling for justice and an end to racism…. Read More →

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

Welcoming Our New Development Director

May 19, 2020
It is with great joy and anticipation that we announce the hire of Shelly Johnston as Congo Initiative USA’s Development Director! This is a new position that has been created to expand CI-USA’s capacity in the ongoing cultivation and stewardship of partnerships with institutional and individual supporters. Shelly will be responsible for overseeing the design […]

Welcoming Our New Development Director

May 19, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

It is with great joy and anticipation that we announce the hire of Shelly Johnston as Congo Initiative USA’s Development Director! This is a new position that has been created to expand CI-USA’s capacity in the ongoing cultivation and stewardship of partnerships with institutional and individual supporters. Shelly will be responsible for overseeing the design […]

Filed Under: Blog

We Are Together

Apr 27, 2020
We are together. This is a line Congo Initiative staff continue to repeat to one another during these uncertain times. Whether virtually or through our limited activities safely implemented to continue serving the community, we remind one another of our solidarity as we all face a world shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic. For years, the […]

We Are Together

April 27, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

We are together. This is a line Congo Initiative staff continue to repeat to one another during these uncertain times. Whether virtually or through our limited activities safely implemented to continue serving the community, we remind one another of our solidarity as we all face a world shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic. For years, the […]

Filed Under: Blog, Featured

Expanding Women’s Influence Requires More Than An Education

Apr 16, 2020
Like the rest of the world, we are learning together about what gender equality means and how we all play a part in achieving it. For many women in Congo, just getting to study at a university seems like an impossible dream. But what we have learned at UCBC is that just providing education isn’t enough to support women’s equal access to jobs, influence, and achievement of their dreams. They also need to know that their community will support them enough to take risks required for growth. Both men and women are necessary to make this happen.... Read More →

Expanding Women’s Influence Requires More Than An Education

April 16, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Like the rest of the world, we are learning together about what gender equality means and how we all play a part in achieving it. For many women in Congo, just getting to study at a university seems like an impossible dream. But what we have learned at UCBC is that just providing education isn’t enough to support women’s equal access to jobs, influence, and achievement of their dreams. They also need to know that their community will support them enough to take risks required for growth. Both men and women are necessary to make this happen…. Read More →

Filed Under: Alumni Spotlight, Blog, Testimonials, Women's Voices

We are together

Mar 24, 2020
We want you to know that we as the Congo Initiative family are here for you. You are important to us, and while we won’t be aware of every single way in which your life has been affected by COVID-19, we know that it has undoubtedly touched you in some way. Please know that you […]

We are together

March 24, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

We want you to know that we as the Congo Initiative family are here for you. You are important to us, and while we won’t be aware of every single way in which your life has been affected by COVID-19, we know that it has undoubtedly touched you in some way. Please know that you […]

Filed Under: Featured

An Equal Congo is an Enabled Congo

Mar 5, 2020
International Women’s Day on March 8th provides an important opportunity to celebrate women’s achievements while calling for greater equality around the world. This year’s theme, each for equal proclaims that an equal world is an enabled world. At Congo Initiative, we are committed to breaking down the barriers to gender equality in Congo. We stand […]

An Equal Congo is an Enabled Congo

March 5, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

International Women’s Day on March 8th provides an important opportunity to celebrate women’s achievements while calling for greater equality around the world. This year’s theme, each for equal proclaims that an equal world is an enabled world. At Congo Initiative, we are committed to breaking down the barriers to gender equality in Congo. We stand […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Alumni Spotlight: Eleazar Nzoera

Feb 27, 2020
Eleazar Nzoera remembers the exact hour he lost his mother. It was January 1, 2011 at 11:00 pm. His mother was an inspiration to him.... Read More →

Alumni Spotlight: Eleazar Nzoera

February 27, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Eleazar Nzoera remembers the exact hour he lost his mother. It was January 1, 2011 at 11:00 pm. His mother was an inspiration to him…. Read More →

Filed Under: Alumni Spotlight

Bethesda: A Place of Healing

Feb 27, 2020
Germain was just two years old when his village in Oicha was attacked by rebels in 2017. As gunfire disrupted the otherwise peaceful community, he hid with his parents under their bed. Amidst the chaos and for fear that the attackers would enter their home, his mother placed Germain on her back and ran for […]

Bethesda: A Place of Healing

February 27, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Germain was just two years old when his village in Oicha was attacked by rebels in 2017. As gunfire disrupted the otherwise peaceful community, he hid with his parents under their bed. Amidst the chaos and for fear that the attackers would enter their home, his mother placed Germain on her back and ran for […]

Filed Under: Blog

A Step Toward Healing & Restoration

Feb 11, 2020
In August 2018, the world's second-largest Ebola outbreak struck eastern Congo and the Beni Territory. Since then, over 2200 people have died from the deadly disease. The outbreak, along with periods of insecurity and violence, has left many women, children, and men traumatized as they experience the loss of loved ones and witness the toll these threats take on their families and communities. But through your support and the Bethesda Counseling Center, they are finding ways to move forward.  Bethesda journeys with those deeply affected by the Ebola outbreak as they take steps towards healing and restoration.... Read More →

A Step Toward Healing & Restoration

February 11, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

In August 2018, the world’s second-largest Ebola outbreak struck eastern Congo and the Beni Territory. Since then, over 2200 people have died from the deadly disease. The outbreak, along with periods of insecurity and violence, has left many women, children, and men traumatized as they experience the loss of loved ones and witness the toll these threats take on their families and communities. But through your support and the Bethesda Counseling Center, they are finding ways to move forward.  Bethesda journeys with those deeply affected by the Ebola outbreak as they take steps towards healing and restoration…. Read More →

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Violence and Outbreaks Continue to Devastate Communities in Congo

Feb 5, 2020
Last week, over 50 people have been killed in the region of Beni. Meanwhile, though great strides have been made in the fight against Ebola, the virus remains a threat. In addition, a measles outbreak has claimed over 6000 lives throughout Congo. Though these horrific realities are not new to our community in Beni, we […]

Violence and Outbreaks Continue to Devastate Communities in Congo

February 5, 2020 by Justin Hubbard

Last week, over 50 people have been killed in the region of Beni. Meanwhile, though great strides have been made in the fight against Ebola, the virus remains a threat. In addition, a measles outbreak has claimed over 6000 lives throughout Congo. Though these horrific realities are not new to our community in Beni, we […]

Filed Under: Blog

A Deep Common Journey

Dec 31, 2019
    

A Deep Common Journey

December 31, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

    

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Alumni Spotlight: Dieudonné Agaba

Dec 19, 2019
The son of a teacher, Dieudonné Agaba (‘15) knew the importance of education from an early age. He also recognized the value of language ...... Read More →

Alumni Spotlight: Dieudonné Agaba

December 19, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

The son of a teacher, Dieudonné Agaba (‘15) knew the importance of education from an early age. He also recognized the value of language …… Read More →

Filed Under: Alumni Spotlight, Blog

The Power of Team

Dec 18, 2019
Our family sends our Christmas and New Year’s greetings to you as a friend, but more importantly, as a team member. Throughout our years of leadership, we have learned an important lesson – we can’t do it alone! We rely on the strength of a team.... Read More →

The Power of Team

December 18, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

Our family sends our Christmas and New Year’s greetings to you as a friend, but more importantly, as a team member. Throughout our years of leadership, we have learned an important lesson – we can’t do it alone! We rely on the strength of a team…. Read More →

Filed Under: Blog

THE NEXT 500 IMPACT REPORT

Dec 11, 2019

THE NEXT 500 IMPACT REPORT

December 11, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Stand in Prayer with Beni: A Message from CI Co-Founder and President, David Kasali

Nov 26, 2019
Just a month ago, we asked you to stand in prayer for our CI community as we opened another academic year at the Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC). God answered. We enrolled 155 new students [who joined 200 returning students] and celebrated as all of CI’s programs continued their crucial work of equipping transformational […]

Stand in Prayer with Beni: A Message from CI Co-Founder and President, David Kasali

November 26, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

Just a month ago, we asked you to stand in prayer for our CI community as we opened another academic year at the Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC). God answered. We enrolled 155 new students [who joined 200 returning students] and celebrated as all of CI’s programs continued their crucial work of equipping transformational […]

Filed Under: Blog

Alumni Spotlight: Miché Lughembe

Nov 25, 2019
Miché Kakule Lughembe studied Biblical Counseling and Psychology in the Theology Faculty at UCBC. He now serves as a pastor at a church...... Read More →

Alumni Spotlight: Miché Lughembe

November 25, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

Miché Kakule Lughembe studied Biblical Counseling and Psychology in the Theology Faculty at UCBC. He now serves as a pastor at a church…… Read More →

Filed Under: Alumni Spotlight, Blog

Alumni Spotlight: Anuarite Kahambu

Nov 21, 2019
After graduating from secondary school and succeeding in the state exams, Anuarite Mathe Kahambu, set her sights on the next...... Read More →

Alumni Spotlight: Anuarite Kahambu

November 21, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

After graduating from secondary school and succeeding in the state exams, Anuarite Mathe Kahambu, set her sights on the next…… Read More →

Filed Under: Alumni Spotlight, Blog, Testimonials, Women's Voices

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS!

Nov 14, 2019
In 2003, Congolese Christian leaders gathered as gunfire and mortar rounds echoed through the air on the outskirts of Beni, Democratic Republic of Congo. Together they lamented the historical and current violence and trauma suffered by Congolese communities. They asked how Christians–people of faith and committed to justice, hope, and peace–should respond to the suffering […]

CELEBRATING 15 YEARS!

November 14, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

In 2003, Congolese Christian leaders gathered as gunfire and mortar rounds echoed through the air on the outskirts of Beni, Democratic Republic of Congo. Together they lamented the historical and current violence and trauma suffered by Congolese communities. They asked how Christians–people of faith and committed to justice, hope, and peace–should respond to the suffering […]

Filed Under: Blog, Testimonials

Alumni Spotlight: Esther Lubemba

Sep 5, 2019
Esther Lubemba ('19) shares her excitement on graduation day. ... Read More →

Alumni Spotlight: Esther Lubemba

September 5, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

Esther Lubemba (’19) shares her excitement on graduation day.

… Read More →

Filed Under: Alumni Spotlight, Blog, Testimonials, Women's Voices

A NEW SEASON

Aug 14, 2019
On August 3rd, over 50 students from Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC) walked across the stage in Hope Chapel to receive their diplomas. Around 30 additional students will defend their theses and graduate by the end of September. As the community celebrated the incredible achievements of these future leaders, Congo Initiative (CI) and UCBC […]

A NEW SEASON

August 14, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

On August 3rd, over 50 students from Université Chrétienne Bilingue du Congo (UCBC) walked across the stage in Hope Chapel to receive their diplomas. Around 30 additional students will defend their theses and graduate by the end of September. As the community celebrated the incredible achievements of these future leaders, Congo Initiative (CI) and UCBC […]

Filed Under: Blog

EBOLA: A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY OF INTERNATIONAL CONCERN

Jul 19, 2019
On Wednesday, July 17th, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a statement declaring the Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) “a public health emergency of international concern.” Over 1700 people have died since the outbreak first began just west of Beni nearly one year ago. After a case was confirmed in […]

EBOLA: A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY OF INTERNATIONAL CONCERN

July 19, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

On Wednesday, July 17th, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a statement declaring the Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) “a public health emergency of international concern.” Over 1700 people have died since the outbreak first began just west of Beni nearly one year ago. After a case was confirmed in […]

Filed Under: Blog

NEWS AND UPDATES

Jan 10, 2019
One of the primary ways we share news and updates online is on our Facebook page. But, we understand not everyone uses Facebook and therefore we wanted to provide an easy way to stay updated. Therefore, we are pleased to share our News and Updates via Facebook Feed on this post. ... Read More →

NEWS AND UPDATES

January 10, 2019 by Justin Hubbard

One of the primary ways we share news and updates online is on our Facebook page. But, we understand not everyone uses Facebook and therefore we wanted to provide an easy way to stay updated. Therefore, we are pleased to share our News and Updates via Facebook Feed on this post. … Read More →

Filed Under: Blog, Latest News

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