Democratic Republic of the Congo—Feed the Future Strengthening Livelihoods and Resilience (SLR) Activity

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Feed the Future Strengthening Livelihoods and Resilience (SLR) Activity assists the Government of the DRC to improve the resilience of vulnerable households and communities and support the Congolese people, households, and communities in their efforts to sustainably escape poverty and chronic vulnerability. SLR strengthens systems and institutional capacity; fosters inclusive economic growth and improved livelihoods; improves the availability, access, utilization, and stability of nutritious foods; and promotes gender equity and the empowerment of women and youth.

SLR focuses on Ituri Province, a challenging operating environment that routinely suffers significant shocks and stresses—including resource-based conflict (especially over land issues), disease outbreaks, and severe weather and climate events—that have led to significant food insecurity and chronic vulnerability. These shocks and stresses add to the challenges faced by women, youth, and other marginalized groups. These groups have limited access to land, inputs, technical assistance, and credit, which constrains their ability to engage in the market and use inputs and technology to increase yields, boost their labor productivity, and, ultimately, increase their incomes.

SLR works to improve the capacities of households, communities, institutions, and systems—and hence reduce the costs of recurrent crises.

Sample Activities

• Improve land-based conflict resolution and social cohesion.
• Increase access to financial services.
• Diversify productive activities through increased private-sector participation.
• Boost access to and availability of nutrient-dense foods and good nutrition and hygiene behaviors.

Select Results

• Supported young people to begin producing chalk by providing a modern chalk-making machine, as well as training in chalk manufacturing and sales. The chalk, the first to be locally manufactured, boasts a competitive price and will lead to long-term supply partnerships with schools.