Protecting Children and Youth in Mining Communities of the DRC

The project aims to improve the well-being of children and youth aged 6 to 22 and protect them against violations of their rights abuse and sexual and economic exploitation in and around 20 mining sites in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It seeks to support survivors of sexual and gender-based violence reinforce everyday life skills provide comprehensive sexual education and enable the socio-economic reintegration of children and youth in the provinces of Upper Katanga Lualaba and South Kivu. Project activities include: (1) establishing partnerships for the protection of children between mining companies local authorities and communities; (2) strengthening health services in mining communities; and (3) developing the skills and capacities of community leaders and groups to negotiate protective measures for children and monitor their implementation. In addition advisory committees and socio-economic and recreational activities enable children to participate actively in the prevention of violence economic exploitation and sexual abuse.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) local institutions are more effective at preventing violence and at protecting children and youth taking into account gender-based differences; (2) families and communities adopt gender-equitable practices that better respect the rights of children and youth; and (3) increased participation of children and youth in gender-specific and equitable violence prevention and protection activities and services.