Marcelline Budza calls for urgent support for communities in crisis

Urgent Appeal for Help for Rebuild Women’s Hope – Democratic Republic of Congo

Rebuild Women’s Hope, an organization founded by Marcelline Budza, a Congolese activist, feminist, and human rights defender, is facing a severe crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Marcelline, who grew up in Bukavu during one of the most brutal periods in DRC’s history, has been fighting for women’s rights for years, particularly in the eastern regions of Congo where socio-economic violence and war have caused untold suffering. Her mission, “Rebuilding women’s hope is building the hope of the entire nation,” inspired by her mother, has become the foundation of an organization dedicated to the empowerment of women since 2013.

The current situation in the Congo region is dire. Since January 18, 2025, intensified fighting in the Kalehe and Masisi areas of South Kivu province has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee. As a result of clashes between armed groups, including M23, FARDC, and their allies, entire communities have been forced to abandon their homes, with many seeking refuge in nearby villages, schools, and shelters that are already struggling with a lack of basic resources. Chaos reigns on the ground, and access to humanitarian aid is severely restricted.

We urgently call for support for the actions of Rebuild Women’s Hope, which are becoming increasingly critical by the day. The organization is assisting 170 families with income-generating projects and reproductive health services. Unfortunately, these families are increasingly falling victim to sexual violence at the hands of regular army soldiers and M23 rebel forces, supported by the Rwandan military. In recent days, staff members of Rebuild Women’s Hope have been tortured by government troops. In a situation where the needs are enormous and access to humanitarian aid is limited, every act of support is invaluable.

Marcelline Budza, whose tireless work has been internationally recognized, received the Polish Sérgio Vieira de Mello Award in the “Person” category in 2024. Marcelline and her team are appealing to individuals, institutions, and organizations for immediate financial and material assistance that will ensure the necessary help for internally displaced persons and allow the continuation of projects supporting women in these tragic circumstances.

How You Can Help:

Help is urgently needed. By supporting Rebuild Women’s Hope, you not only assist women in Congo but also support the entire community fighting for survival in these difficult conditions. Your donation will help provide shelter, food, healthcare, and enable the continued efforts to rebuild and educate women affected by war.

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