The Kivu region in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is one of the most conflict-ridden and poorest regions in the world. For years, people there have suffered from a war that has affected various armed groups, the Congolese army and the UN peacekeepers. The violence has led to displacement, human rights violations and humanitarian crises. According to the aid organization Caritas, more than 5 million people were displaced in 2022 alone.
In fact, there is hope and beauty in the midst of this difficult situation. The Kivu region borders the Virunga National Park, the oldest in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to a unique biodiversity, including the endangered mountain gorillas, which are found only here and in a few other areas. The park is also an important source of clean water, wood and energy for the local population.
Another resource that the national park and its surroundings offer is coffee. The high altitudes, the volcanic rock and the humid climate are ideal for growing high-quality Arabica coffee. Coffee cultivation in the region has a long tradition that goes back to colonial times. However, due to poor infrastructure, low technical know-how and, above all, the lack of market access due to war and crises, the local population has not been able to adequately benefit from this potential.
