Working in The Province of The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

There has been an Anglican presence in Zaire since 1896. The Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo was formed in 1992, and has seven dioceses. The country is nearly a quarter of the size of the USA and borders no less than ten countries with a population of 56 million. Since gaining its independence in 1960, the country has been marred with trouble, unrest and corruption culminating in a five-year civil war that claimed the lives of an estimated 4 million people. Tension still remains high in many areas and civil unrest is still rife. Elections are planned for 2006.

The war in the DRC has had a devastating affect on communities and on the work of Mothers' Union. Many families were obliged to seek refuge in neighbouring countries. The war has devastated society and the land, resulting in extreme poverty, malnutrition and little hope for the better through education. However Mothers' Union has continued to work hard amid difficult situations to show God's love. They have seen the needs and responded. Seminars havebeen held on violence and HIV/AIDS and people affected have been helped through numerouscounselling services. Their peace and reconciliation work has been vital and among the many casualties of the war, many widows and orphans are served and supported by Mothers' Union .

Micro-credit and income generation projects have been established, and the agricultural activities producing palm oil, bananas, oranges, peanuts and rice have been hugely successful. There have also been development projects in craft making, tree planting and soap making.

Mothers' Union members meet regularly for prayer and fellowship, which forms a vital foundation to the important work that is being undertaken in the country.