A mobile library provides youth learning during DRC conflict

The initiative does more than just deliver books; it provides a sense of normalcy and continuity in the lives of these children.

For many, it is a rare opportunity to engage in an educational activity that can offer an escape from the harsh realities of their daily lives. Reading becomes a lifeline, a way to dream, to learn, and to envision a better future.

Moreover, it includes storytelling sessions, reading clubs, and basic literacy classes conducted by trained volunteers.

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the DRC has one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children in the world. Nearly 7 million children aged 5 to 17 comprise this population with girls being particularly disadvantaged.

The ongoing conflict has exacerbated this crisis, with many children forced to abandon their education to flee violence.

Despite tough odds, the mobile library shows the resilience and determination of the organisation to provide education and a sense of community for the nation’s youth. It demonstrates that even in the most challenging circumstances, creative solutions are emerging.

Currently, thousands of children have been reached, instilling the joy of reading and the hope for a brighter future.

As the initiative continues to grow, there are plans to expand its reach, add more books to the collection, and integrate digital resources to enhance the learning experience. The goal is to see every child in Eastern DRC have access to quality education, regardless of their circumstances.

In a land where the shadows of war loom large, the mobile library is a moving symbol of hope and possibility.