Addressing food insecurity in DRC: Mpumbu community bakery
Political unrest, armed conflict and massive population displacement have exacerbated food insecurity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. With almost 27.3 million people facing severe food shortages, and nearly 3.4 million children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, the humanitarian emergency is palpable.
To counter hunger and promote food self-sufficiency, the Roncalli International Foundation supported an initiative of the Religieux de Saint-Vincent de Paul (Religious of Saint-Vincent de Paul) that is as humble as it is essential: the creation of a community mini-bakery in Mpumbu. This venture goes far beyond a simple commercial project; for the women of the region, it embodies hope and autonomy.
The long early morning journeys, marked by insecurity, road accidents, violence and muggings on the roads leading to bakeries far from the neighbourhood, as well as the risks of bread contamination linked to the distances covered, are now a thing of the past. Thanks to the commitment of these determined women, healthy, nutritious bread is now within reach. What’s more, this initiative frees up time of the women for other income generating activities. The bakery has also created new local employment prospects, helping to strengthen the region’s economy.