Development and Peace - Program 2006-2011 - Africa

This project represents additional support provided to the Development and Peace program for activities in Africa. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo this project supports community radio services the construction of a community center the reconstruction of a rural main road and microcredit loans as well as helping to pay for human and other material resources. In Burundi the project supports the purchase of goods and services and the construction of storage facilities. In Sierra Leone the project supports agricultural activities income-generating activities seed banks and the construction of two leadership training and multi-service centres. The program aims to undertake activities needed to achieve long-term self-sufficiency for vulnerable populations through sustainable community-based development initiatives. It strives to build more just and equal communities by empowering the poor and their organizations to effectively defend their rights and provide for their needs. It also aims to support and strengthen emerging social movements in order to empower the urban and rural poor so that they can participate in democratic governance contribute to a reduction in social and gender inequalities and gain better access to and control over resources. The program works with civil society groups to assume responsibility for their own development and to become agents of change striving for social and economic justice. It focuses on improving democratic conditions strengthening popular organizations increasing women’s participation in decision making and improving access to resources.