Kinshasa: Biso Basi Movement Seeks Aid for Vulnerable Women in Maluku

The Biso Basi Telema movement, a feminist organization, has been providing humanitarian aid and prevention services to vulnerable women in Maluku, Democratic Republic of Congo. With funding from UAF-Africa, the organization implemented a four-month project that concluded in November 2026. Elsie Lotendo, coordinator of Biso Basi Telema, presented the project's progress on November 13, 2026, at RTNC CD. The project reached over 500 people on two sites, providing psychosocial support to 120 women and distributing dignity kits and food to 150 households.

The project was implemented in two phases, starting with a field study to identify priority needs and understand the difficulties faced by women in the area. The study involved a meeting with around 50 people, including village leaders and community members, in the presence of the Maluku commune mayor. Through direct exchanges, the team collected concerns from participants on humanitarian needs and gender-based violence. This was followed by a sensitization session that mobilized over 150 participants, discussing various forms of gender-based violence and their physical, psychological, and social consequences.

The Biso Basi Telema movement also provided psychosocial support to women victims of violence, offering a safe space for them to share their experiences and receive support. The organization distributed dignity kits to over 100 women, containing essential items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and sanitary pads. Additionally, 150 vulnerable households received food assistance, including rice, semolina, oil, salt, sugar, and dried fish.

The project was implemented in partnership with various technical and security partners. The UNFPA trained the Biso Basi Telema team on gender-based violence and psychosocial support for survivors. The MONUSCO Gender Section was also involved in preventing gender-based violence and promoting women's rights. The organization worked closely with local authorities, including village leaders and the Maluku commune mayor, to ensure the project's success.

According to the project's provisional report, the main activities planned were achieved. However, the organization noted that the full achievement of objectives would also depend on the results of psychosocial follow-up, feedback from beneficiaries, and observed changes in their situation. The Biso Basi Telema movement aims to continue providing support to vulnerable women in Maluku and promoting their rights and dignity.

The project's impact was significant, with over 500 people sensitized and 120 women receiving psychosocial support. The distribution of dignity kits and food assistance also had a positive impact on the beneficiaries. The organization's efforts to prevent gender-based violence and promote women's rights were also appreciated by local authorities and community members.

The Biso Basi Telema movement's project in Maluku demonstrates the importance of providing humanitarian aid and prevention services to vulnerable women in conflict-affected areas. The organization's efforts to promote women's rights and dignity are crucial in addressing the root causes of gender-based violence and ensuring a sustainable impact. Key points:

Key points

• The Biso Basi Telema movement provided humanitarian aid and prevention services to over 500 people in Maluku, Democratic Republic of Congo.
• The project included psychosocial support for 120 women and distribution of dignity kits and food to 150 households.
• The organization worked in partnership with local authorities and technical partners to ensure the project's success.