ODASOV

Walungu is a village 60 km south of Bukavu, in South Kivu Province of DR Congo.  It is subject to frequent warring between rebels, disenchanted army and Hutu’s from across the border in Rwanda.  There are many widows, orphans, children born as a result of rape and the social structure of the community is constantly challenged.

The Organisation for the Development of the Socially Vulnerable  (ODASOV in French terms) has been going for several years. The president of the group is the local magistrate and other members include local doctors, nurses, teachers and administrators. ODASOV is recognised by the United Nations as a provider of education in the region.

We have been supporting them in developing a training centre where women can be taught income earning skills. ODASOV also works to give all children access to education and provide health services to vulnerable people– e.g. the local pygmy tribes– who are the indigenous people of the area.

So far our group in Wodonga has sent over $ 22,000 toward projects and the training centre is almost complete. This year we are looking for $10,000 to complete and equip the building.