DR Congo: Chosen Launched in Kenge, 85 Children Take Their Future into Their Own Hands

By Didier Nagifi, Communications Officer

On May 24 and 25, 2025, the city of Kenge, in the western part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, came alive with a unique event: Chosen, organized for the first time in this region by World Vision DRC. For 85 children, it was far more than just a day,  it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to choose their sponsors, flipping the traditional model where sponsors alone selected children.

Kenge thus becomes the third program to host Chosen, after Gemena and Karawa. But this edition stands out with a major distinction: it is the first to be carried out in partnership with the World Vision Malaysia support office, creating a moving bridge between Congolese children and their international sponsors.

A Day Full of Emotions and Hope

 The event brought together local authorities, community leaders, families, and World Vision DRC staff. Among the distinguished guests were Aline Napon, National Director, and Florence Mambu, Head of the Western Zone. All shared a moment filled with warmth and collective pride.

Emotions were tangible in both looks and gestures. Juvenal, 10 years old, did not hide his excitement:

“I’m very happy to have chosen my sponsor. I saw him with my own eyes and I know that with his support, our community of Kenge will change.”

For the parents, this moment also resonated as a sign of restored dignity. Nenette, the mother of a sponsored child, shared:

“When I saw my child go choose their sponsor, I was very happy. I never imagined they could participate in such an event that brings us value.”

A Turning Point in Community Sponsorship

 Beyond the emotion, Chosen represents a strategic shift in the sponsorship approach. By placing the child at the heart of the process, World Vision DRC promotes autonomy, boosts self-esteem, and empowers children to play an active role in shaping their future.

Aline Napon emphasized the profound impact of this approach:

“I saw children dancing before going to choose their sponsors, happy parents, and dedicated volunteers. Through Chosen, we will have lawyers, doctors, teachers.”

This first edition in Kenge will remain a symbol of a social transformation underway. World Vision DRC aims to expand this initiative to other regions so that every child has the opportunity to choose, to dream, and above all, to build their own future.