Finding her God-Given Identity
How one woman in the DRC was empowered to reach her God-given potential, and provided for her whole family!
When you’ve been told who you are since birth, it’s not easy to step out of man-made roles and into your God-given identity.
For Kavira Françoise, growing up in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has greatly shaped the way she sees herself. “I used to believe that only men could buy land,” she explained. Where she lived, it was men who managed the household, made money, and had any influence, while women could only raise children. She had never thought to question these roles; it was just the way things were.
In eastern DRC, conflict has been ongoing for years as rebel groups continue to seize control of territory. Poverty is deepening, and millions are hungry, thirsty, and displaced from their homes. With violence and the effects of changing weather patterns disrupting agriculture, farmers can’t harvest or afford the food they need to survive. For years, Françoise and her husband scraped by each day, making just enough to feed their children. But even that was a struggle.
Amid this crisis, Tearfund’s partners are restoring hope through the local church, equipping communities with lasting, life-giving solutions. Food security is not found in one-time handouts, but in sustainable, community-based programs; this is why Tearfund works through the local church to train community members in skills such as farming and livestock care.
When a food security program was offered at Françoise’s local church, she didn’t expect to be invited to participate! She had never been offered a chance to learn like this, and she was eager to accept the offer. Little did she know that this project would change her entire life.
Through this program, Françoise was trained in a new method called Conservation Agriculture (CA)—a task she once believed only her husband could do. Now, it was something she understood and practiced with confidence. “In the past, our yields were extremely low,” she explained. “But today, using the project’s methods, we can harvest up to fifty kilograms by planting just one kilogram of maize seed! That’s a significant transformation.”
More than that, Françoise was taught about rabbit farming too. Being able to take care of and manage her own livelihood empowered her, gave her dignity, and hope for what was ahead. “When I had my first litter, I gave one to the pastor at church,” she said eagerly. She couldn’t wait to bless others as she had been blessed!
“Food is no longer a struggle for us,” she said, beaming. “Thanks to Tearfund, I can feed my children, save money, and take pride in what I do.”
She never would have imagined the impact that she could have as a married woman in the DRC. But as she eloquently puts it, “I’ve learned that women, too, must have a vision. We can also contribute to our families’ futures.”
Through this food security program, Françoise not only built up a sustainable livelihood for her family, but has stepped into her God-given identity, following the plans He has for her.
“This project has changed how I see myself as a woman.”
Thanks to your generosity, women like Françoise are being empowered to reach their God-given potential through their local churches. We are so grateful for your partnership with us!