Indigenous Women's Group Empowers Communities in DRC Through Media
The Union of Indigenous Women for Integral Development (UFAPDI), backed by Cultural Survival, has initiated a project to bolster Indigenous leadership and empower communities through media. This initiative, funded by the Amadeu Antonio Foundation, is transforming lives in the Fizi Territory of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The project, launched in 2024, aims to promote journalism, broadcasting, and technical skills for Indigenous media. It has equipped Radio La Voix de la Femme (RVF 99.5 FM) with new electrical equipment, including three 220-ampere batteries and 7, 150-watt solar panels, extending its broadcast hours.
Over 1,000 community members have been educated on mining rights and Law 030, leading to a decrease in illegal mining cases in the project area. The empowerment of participants is evident, with one Pygmy journalist stating the training provided new knowledge about mining law, and another gaining self-confidence through speaking on the radio.
Five radio clubs have been established in towns across the Fizi territory, producing 80 radio shows and spots in Swahili and French. These clubs, working through RVF, are educating and raising awareness locally, driving changes in community perception and behavior. The project has demonstrated the power of Indigenous-led media in promoting rights and holding authorities accountable for protecting land and resources.
The project, funded by the Amadeu Antonio Foundation, is successfully empowering Indigenous communities in the Fizi territory. By strengthening Indigenous leadership and revitalizing the population through RVF, it is combating the threats posed by illegal and unregulated exploitation of transition minerals.
