DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO
With a surface area equivalent to that of Western Europe, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is the largest country in Sub-Saharan Africa. It remains one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking 135 out of 157 countries in terms of human capital. It’s population remains heavily underbanked; it is estimated that 25 million people out of a population of about 88 million are outside of the financial system, with just 14% of the population having an actual bank account.
‘Roots of Change’ project: Gemen
Gemen is one of the two locations of our “Roots of Change” project, which is supported by the UK government and aims to increase the economic empowerment of women in rural DRC.
The project provides access to modern farming techniques and improved agricultural inputs (seeds and fertiliser) which increase crop quality and yields. Access to market data and safe storage facilities also enhance female farmers’ ability to negotiate the best price for their crops.
To improve the status of women both at home and in the community, the project engages local opinion leaders and male family members with the benefits of increasing women’s participation in economic activities, as well as addressing the distribution of household responsibilities. Through training, women’s leadership skills are developed, strengthening their voice and decision-making power in the household and marketplace.
‘Roots of Change’ project: Kinshasa
Kinshasa is one of the two locations of our “Roots of Change” project, which is supported by the UK government and aims to increase the economic empowerment of women in rural DRC.
The project provides access to modern farming techniques and improved agricultural inputs (seeds and fertiliser) which increase crop quality and yields. Access to market data and safe storage facilities also enhance female farmers’ ability to negotiate the best price for their crops.
To improve the status of women both at home and in the community, the project engages local opinion leaders and male family members with the benefits of increasing women’s participation in economic activities, as well as addressing the distribution of household responsibilities. Through training, women’s leadership skills are developed, strengthening their voice and decision-making power in the household and marketplace.
Our Impact
In partnership with the UK government and trusted local microfinance partners, Opportunity is delivering real social and economic change, through an innovative rural programme, to over 2,000 women in the poorest regions of the country.
Our Clients
With clients in over 20 countries, Opportunity International provides access to financial products and support to more than 19 million people worldwide who are now working their way out of poverty.
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Berth
Berth lives in Kinshasa, the Democratic of Congo's capital city, with her five children and husband of 25 years. She owns a fruit and vegetable business which had been struggling but this changed after being introduced to Opportunity International.
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Nicole
Nicole is a vegetable farmer and a single mother to four children. With support from Opportunity International, she has improved her farming practices and accessed good fertiliser and seeds. Her harvest has increased as a result.