Over 80 Youth Trained in Entrepreneurship as Part of Peacebuilding Efforts in South Kivu.

On April 15, 2026, over 80 young people from Miti, Kavumu, and Kashusha in Kabare territory gathered for a practical training focused on entrepreneurship and self reliance.

The session was organized by the New Hope Reconciliation Center, with financial support from Congo Peace, and took place at the New Hope Academy technical center in Kavumu. The training was led by Tim Cooke, a partner from the United States, who shared his experience on how to start and manage small businesses.

The goal of the program was clear, give young people the tools they need to create their own opportunities instead of waiting for jobs that may never come.

During the training, participants learned how to identify business opportunities, think creatively, improve sales, and manage income in a simple but effective way. The focus was practical, helping them apply what they learn in real life.

Many participants said the training made a real difference. One of them, Sifa Bitorwa, a local trader, explained that she now feels more confident in how she sells her products and plans to try new ideas in her business.

Others also shared their commitment to use what they learned to grow their activities and support themselves and their families.

Beyond business, the training also created space for connection. Young people from different communities came together, exchanged ideas, and built relationships. For the organizers, this is just as important as the economic side, because peace and cooperation often start with simple interactions like these.

At the same time, the organization held a prayer gathering for peace in Bukavu at the Methodist Church of Muhumba. People from different churches and communities came together to pray, sing, and reflect.

Pastor Joseph Harera, Executive Director of the New Hope Reconciliation Center, spoke about the importance of unity and reconciliation in South Kivu. Tim Cooke also shared a message encouraging people to combine faith with action, especially in how they approach work and business.

The event brought together choirs and church members from different backgrounds, including Banyamulenge, Bashi, and Babembe communities, showing a shared desire for peace despite past divisions.

Organizers say they plan to continue this program in other parts of South Kivu and provide follow up support to help young people grow their projects.

Through these efforts, the New Hope Reconciliation Center is trying to address two challenges at once, helping youth build a future for themselves while also strengthening peace within their communities.