In the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the population has been caught in the crossfire of a devastating armed conflict for months. In the first half of 2025, over half a million people were forced to flee in the face of widespread violence and instability. Originally from Goma, the capital of North Kivu in Eastern DRC, Neema, 50, owned a shop, selling fish and drinks. Her business enabled her to provide for her six children and to live comfortably.
But in January 2025, her life was turned upside down when violence resurged. One day, while driving behind the Governor’s car on the outskirts of the city, she witnessed his assassination. Chaos erupted: gunfire, panic, and widespread violence. She understood it was time to flee, to save her life and that of her children. Urged by her sons to flee, Neema left the city with her two youngest daughters, particularly exposed to the threats of sexual violence that became widespread during the conflict.
She fled her home, carrying almost nothing – only her clothes, and $100. She embarked on a perilous journey, boarding a boat bound for Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu. In Bukavu, the situation was equally dire. Soldiers retreating to the south of the country asked them for money in exchange for transportation, otherwise they wouldn’t be allowed to continue. Neema gave them everything she had. They traveled by car from Bukavu to Uvira and by boat from Uvira to Kalemie. In Kalemie, Neema and others displaced families camped outside the airport for two weeks. Eventually, soldiers secured a transportation, but it could only carry a few, leaving 48 people behind.
“War destroys everything, shattering lives, leaving indelible scars on individuals and communities. I had a house, a business and a vehicle. Now I have nothing.”
After a grueling two-week journey, they arrived in Kolwezi, thanks to soldiers who offered to take them there. Once in Kolwezi, a young street vendor introduced them to a local woman from Goma, who took them in and offered shelter. Neema was feeling ill and not wanting to overburden her host’s household, asked to be put in touch with someone who could provide support. A few days later, she was brought to notre partenaire local Bon Pasteur Kolwezi.
There, she was welcomed by the aspirant sisters and introduced to Sr. Furaha and Sr. Yvette, who provided them with food, medical care, and psychological support. Severely ill, Neema is not yet able to participate in activities or training, but she receives daily care and assistance. Her older daughter is now enrolled in Bon Pasteur vocational training, while the youngest is attending formal school thanks to the support of the host family.
“I knew no one here, but I was received with kindness – she recalls.”
However, the situation remains difficult. Neema is confronted with uncertainty about the future and questions from her children, “Will we ever eat meat again?” She tells them to be patient as, one day, they will feel like they’re home again.
Despite these circumstances, Neema is determined to regain her independence. She says she has found peace in Kolwezi. She feels safe and supported and hopes to resume a small business like the one she ran in Goma.
“If you see someone fleeing for their life, help them. Being a refugee is one of the most difficult experiences anyone can face. I want to tell others, especially those arriving in Kolwezi, to come to Bon Pasteur. I was received with love and support. Even those still far away, do not lose hope.”
Article and pictures republished here with the kind permission of Good Shepherd International Foundation
