DR Congo: How Sewing Machines Can Empower Young Mothers in Bukanga Lonzo

On 13 February 2026, World Vision DRC officially handed over sewing machines to 25 young mothers in Bukanga Lonzo, in Kwango Province. The ceremony brought together political and administrative authorities, religious leaders, parents, and many members of the community, all gathered to celebrate a moment of hope and transformation.

After two months of training in dressmaking and tailoring, these machines represent far more than simple tools: they are genuine instruments of empowerment, enabling the young mothers to launch their own income-generating activities. Eddy Ambali, Cluster Manager of World Vision Kenge, highlighted this by stating: 

“These machines are instruments of hope and empowerment. They open the way to self-employment and sustainable economic stability.”

Present at the ceremony, Lambert, Chief of the Bukanga Lonzo sector, expressed his appreciation to World Vision, saying: 

“I commend this action by World Vision. By providing these 25 young mothers with sewing machines, you are ensuring their financial independence and enabling them to take an active role in the development of the sector.”

The training was delivered by the Association des Jeunes pour la Lutte contre la Malnutrition de Bukanga Lonzo (AJLMB). Madame Lucie, head of the organisation, spoke about the participants’ progress: “For two months, we trained these girls with experienced instructors. Today, they can sew and to stand on their own feet on the path towards self-reliance. Thank you to World Vision for restoring hope and dignity to these vulnerable young women.”

With emotion, Ange, one of the beneficiaries, also expressed her gratitude:

“We sincerely thank World Vision for this enriching training and for the machines we have received. Thanks to you, we have developed new skills, regained confidence, and can now build a better future for our children.”

To ensure the immediate launch of their activities, each participant received a complete kit consisting of a sewing machine, two rolls of fabric, two pairs of scissors, and sewing thread. This package enables them to start a small, profitable income-generating activity straight away.

Through this initiative, the 25 young mothers of Bukanga Lonzo now look to the future with confidence, determination, and renewed dignity. Through these machines, World Vision is promoting the creation of sustainable, collective tailoring workshops, contributing to self-employment, strengthened livelihoods, local economic dynamism, and the restoration of dignity within the community.