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Empowering women through literacy in the Democratic Republic of Congo
On International Women鈥檚 Day (8 March), the Collectif celebrates its vision: a world where literacy unlocks women鈥檚 power to drive sustainable development, social cohesion, and lasting peace.
Recognizing that illiteracy disproportionately silences women and girls, Collectif Alpha-Ujuvi designed programmes to dismantle barriers holding them back. Today, its work spans five provinces in the DRC and neighboring countries, with women constituting over 80% of its beneficiaries. In 2011, the programme received the UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy for its groundbreaking literacy and peace initiatives鈥攁 testament to its unwavering commitment to gender equality.
Literacy as a lifeline for women and girls
The UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy has galvanized global recognition for Collectif Alpha-Ujuvi, attracting partnerships that scale its impact. It has amplified Collectif Alpha-Ujuvi鈥檚 impact, enabling deeper investments in women鈥檚 empowerment. At the heart of its mission is Logis TALITHA Khoum, a sanctuary for survivors of gender-based violence and socio-economic exploitation. Here, 70 girls have found safety, 150 have reunited with families, and hundreds more have reclaimed their education through trauma-informed literacy programmes.
鈥淓ducation is not just reading and writing鈥攊t is dignity,鈥 explains Sister Deodata. This philosophy also drives initiatives like the Azina Confucius Project, a 134-hectare farm designed to fund women鈥檚 literacy and children鈥檚 schooling. Though delayed by conflict, the project symbolizes a future where women control resources and shape sustainable economies.
Programmes led by and for women
Collectif Alpha-Ujuvi鈥檚 success lies in its women-centered approach, integrating literacy with leadership, digital innovation, and advocacy.
Through the Tushiriki Wote Project, 449 women cross-border traders receive training in literacy and conflict resolution, equipping them with the skills to serve as mediators in peace processes across North and South Kivu. In the field of digital skills and entrepreneurship, over 300 women have graduated from IT and business courses offered at digital centers in Bukavu, Goma, and Kinshasa. To further support their ambitions, women-led startups receive seed funding, helping them turn their skills into sustainable businesses. The organization鈥檚 Ending Impunity advocacy campaigns have reached 10,000 displaced persons, providing crucial education on gender-based violence. By engaging 7,500 women and 3,500 men in dialogues, these initiatives contribute to shifting societal norms and fostering long-term change.
鈥淏efore, I couldn鈥檛 read a contract. Now, I run my own business,鈥 shares Esp茅rance, a graduate of the entrepreneurship program.
Women leading peace and resilience
In a region where conflict persists, Collectif Alpha-Ujuvi partners with governments, NGOs, and UN agencies to ensure women are not just beneficiaries but leaders in peacebuilding. By integrating literacy with civic education, the organization has equipped women to advocate for their rights, participate in governance, and challenge cycles of violence.
鈥淲omen are the backbone of resilience here,鈥 emphasizes Sister Deodata. 鈥淲hen they gain literacy, they gain the confidence to lead鈥攊n their homes, markets, and communities. To educate a woman is to awaken a nation.鈥
In the DRC and beyond, Collectif Alpha-Ujuvi continues to prove that truth, one woman at a time.
