Strengthening families’ capacities to take care of children
UNICEF, the WFP and the FAO support the autonomy of more than 4,000 vulnerable families through training and money transfers.
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Every three months, Bénie waits with great anticipation for her phone to ring with a message that she can withdraw her money. “The amount is 148,500 Congolese francs,” explains Bénie. The young woman receives this message as part of a money transfer program established by UNICEF, the WFP and the FAO with the support of the United Kingdom, to help vulnerable families in the N’Sele commune in Kinshasa.
Bénie launched a small business to sell hot coals to allow her to take care of her family, thanks to the money she received. At least three times a week, she walks around ten kilometres to find her goods and sell them in her district. “I sell hot coals and put some money aside to do something more lucrative later,” explains Bénie. With her husband, the mother also started some agricultural activities.
“This helps us to improve our diet and maintain good health,” affirms Bénie while walking proudly on her field. Thanks to the training supported by the FAO and its partners, Bénie learned to cultivate a large variety of fruits and vegetables that help her to diversify her family’s diet. The mother also committed herself to respect other family practices essential for her family’s wellbeing.
After learning from community relays supported by UNICEF, Bénie and her husband decided to apply to the courts to obtain a birth certificate for their daughter, Shahida. Equipped with their new knowledge and thanks to their autonomy, Bénie can ensure a good future for her daughter. “This project brings a lot to our families; it assures us that tomorrow will be better for our children,” concludes Bénie.
