Empowering Women & Girls

Empowering women and girls in the DRC through health education is crucial for fostering gender equality and improving overall well-being.

Period poverty, for example, refers to the lack of access to menstrual hygiene products and adequate education about menstrual health, particularly among individuals who cannot afford these essentials. By implementing initiatives through the Ida Lee Project that provide products and education on menstrual health in Kisangani, we not only alleviate the financial burden associated with periods but also promote dignity and confidence among women and girls. Moreover, these initiatives serve as a gateway to broader health education, allowing participants to learn about reproductive health and hygiene practices, empowering them to take control of their health and make informed decisions about their bodies.

In addition to addressing menstrual health needs, the Ida Lee Project’s work centers on holistic care and education around preventative care, specifically through regular screenings, to further empower women and girls in the DRC. Through comprehensive health and wellness workshops covering topics such as nutrition, hygiene, and disease prevention, participants are equipped with knowledge, skills, and tools to prioritize their health and well-being.

This holistic approach not only improves individual health outcomes but also has a ripple effect, benefiting families and communities at large. By investing in the health and education of women and girls, we not only promote gender equality but also create a foundation for sustainable development, as healthy, safe, and empowered women are better able to contribute to their communities' social and economic advancement.

Gender Inequality in the DRC

  • In 2020, the DRC ranked 176 out of 189 countries on the Gender Inequality Index.

  • UNICEF reports primary school completion rate for girls in the DRC was only 57% in 2018, compared to 66% for boys.

  • As of 2021, women held only about 11% of seats in the National Assembly and 7% of seats in the Senate.

  • According to the World Bank, the female labor force participation rate in the DRC was 23.2% in 2020, significantly lower than the male participation rate of 66.5%.

  • The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) reported that more than one in four women in the DRC have experienced sexual violence, with rates increasing during periods of conflict.