At the Centre Saint Ignace in Kingabwa, DRC, nutritional support for malnourished orphans and the women’s empowerment microcredit program under the Building Resilience in Women and Girls in Africa (BRWGA) initiative are continuing to transform lives. With support from the African Jesuit AIDS Network (AJAN) and members of the Christian Life Community (CVX), vulnerable children are regaining their health, while women living with HIV are strengthening their small businesses—bringing hope and resilience to one of Kinshasa’s most underserved communities.

In response to overwhelming needs, the Centre resumed its nutritional support program for malnourished orphans following last year’s successful intervention. With the generous support of members of the Christian Life Community (CVX) Kinshasa, Jesuit companions, and Sr. Marisa Ramos, donations in cash and in kind—including soy, sugar, milk, bread, and charcoal—were mobilized to prepare essential food supplements.

Nutritional support program for malnourished orphans at Centre Saint Ignace, Kingabwa, DRC.

Between November 10, 2025, and February 15, 2026, 15 malnourished orphans (7 boys and 8 girls) received nutritional supplements three times a week. The children’s health status was carefully monitored using the Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) bracelet recommended by UNICEF. After three months of consistent follow-up, 11 children (73%) recovered, four remained stable, and sadly, one child passed away. Despite the loss, the results highlight the life-saving importance of sustained nutritional intervention.

The Centre also continues to witness positive outcomes from its women’s empowerment initiative. Regular visits to our beneficiaries who benefited from microcredit support reveal encouraging growth. Many women have strengthened their small businesses, with some doubling or even tripling their initial capital. This progress demonstrates the enduring impact of the project implemented with the support of AJAN.

By, M. Rémy Ngamba Etsayem,

Director, Centre Saint Ignace de Kinshasa, DRC.