Final Evaluation of the TUINUKE Program/Project-Protection and Sustainable Livelihoods

The programTUINUKE (« Let's get up» in Swahili) is a community resilience initiative deployed in contexts affected by conflict, gender inequalities, food insecurity and climate risks. It aims to strengthen social cohesion, improve living conditions, support sustainable livelihoods and prepare communities for future shocks, through coordinated actions around peace, local economic development, gender and disaster risk reduction.

The participatory evaluation carried out was based on a mixed methodology including individual surveys, qualitative interviews, focus groups and field observations. Data was collected from a representative sample of 456 program participants, 7 Focus Groups and 20 key informants in Kiwanja, Rutshuru center, Karambi, Goma including the southern part of Nyiragongo territory and Minova. This approach made it possible to gather in-depth perceptions on the changes induced by the program, the results obtained as well as the challenges encountered.

Main results of the evaluation

• Food security and agriculture: About 90% of program participants reported an improvement in food availability, attributed to agricultural support and access to inputs. The agroecological practices promoted have strengthened local productivity and resilience to climatic hazards.

Strengthening livelihoods:

Community microfinance activities allowed nearly 70% of participants to access capital to launch or strengthen income-generating activities, promoting the economic empowerment of women and young people and improving living conditions (food, housing, education, health). Despite the massive displacements caused by armed conflicts, leading to loss of property and the failure of initiatives, CADEGO was able to adapt by facilitating the rental of new land, the acquisition of equipment and the pursuit of activities in displacement areas, thus contributing to economic recovery and community resilience.

• Professional training and integration:Around 81% of trained participants say they have used the skills acquired in concrete activities, improving their employability and economic integration. The priority sectors included agriculture, sewing, automobile mechanics (coupled with driving), carpentry, hairdressing and aesthetics, masonry, plumbing, office automation/IT, plumbing and small commerce.
• Gender and inclusion:The program actively promoted the participation of women in decision-making groups and economic activities. More than 67% of respondents say they have seen their role strengthened in the community thanks to the program, although certain sociocultural barriers remain.
• Peacebuilding:Local peace committees and community dialogues have helped reduce intercommunity tensions and conflicts. Around 68% of participants say that peaceful coexistence has improved, particularly within their families and in their immediate environment such as their neighborhoods, villages or community gathering places since the implementation of the program.
• Disaster Risk Reduction:Through reforestation campaigns, flood awareness, and training on risk management, more than 78% of households say they are better prepared for natural disasters, although needs persist in terms of monitoring and equipment.
• Sense of safety and protective environment: 83% of beneficiaries felt safe during program activities, and 75% did not experience discrimination or intimidation. 61% found the locations of the activities acceptable, which demonstrates good logistical organization, despite some room for improvement.

The evaluation highlights strong results in resilience, social cohesion, economic empowerment and community governance. The TUINUKE program has laid the foundations for inclusive and sustainable development, while revealing levers for improvement to consolidate achievements and extend impact.