Sons of Congo: Transforming Men into Champions of Change

Sons of Congo is a healing movement transforming men into influential leaders and champions for change in their families, churches, communities and nation.

About Sons of Congo

Sons of Congo (SOC) began in 2010 to address broken and wounded men through a unique, Bible-based curriculum. Over 90 percent of perpetrators of gender-based violence in the DRC are men. A culture of impunity, addiction, sexual assault, genocide and high levels of male unemployment have thwarted men's ability to step into their God-given roles as protectors and leaders. Rather than solely focusing on supporting victims, we believe men must be a part of the solution. Through relationship-based education and discipleship, we address a broken and wounded masculinity that contributes to ongoing violence.

Program Structure

  • 16-week biblically-based discipleship classes
  • Classes held once a week for three hours
  • Small groups of 5-10 disciples
  • Graduates start their own classes, multiplying the impact
  • Focus on responsible masculinity and family dynamics

Impact

  • Restoration of men's meeting programs in churches
  • Changing the culture of a nation by first changing the dynamic within the home
  • Improved initiative to lead family dialogue and prayer times
  • Increased self-esteem and exposure to ethical male leadership
  • Active participation in community development
  • Initiation of a money-saving system for investment in income-generating projects
  • Discovery of self-confidence and life mission

Additional Impact

  • 40,742 men trained on the SOC curriculum in various cities and villages
  • 8,148 men actively involved in the program
  • 32,594 men exposed to the program through group discussions
  • 1,547 men graduated in 2020
  • Over 600 active small groups throughout Eastern DR Congo
  • 90% of men trained received psychological support
  • More than 1,000 men have given their life to the Lord

Influence

  • Operating in eight cities and 11 additional villages
  • $48,000 annual budget

Support Sons of Congo Today

Your support can help transform more men into champions of change. Donate now to help us continue our mission, or learn more about our programs and how you can get involved.

Testimonials

Hear From Our Beneficiaries

Read stories from individuals whose lives have been transformed by our programs.

My husband humiliated me a lot, even in front of visitors. After he went through the Sons of Congo program, I saw a change in his heart. Now, he answers my questions gently.

Ale Yemima

wife of SOC graduate

I will begin to pray for our leaders; then I will practice offering my forgiveness to those who offend me, as we learned through the scriptures.

Donat

from Beni DRC

My choice to follow God in Christ opened many doors for me. I now influence over 150 young people in North Kivu, helping orphan children of agents who worked at the DGDA.

Patrick

from Rutshuru DRC

FAQs

Do you think that the DRC will recover in terms of development?

If Congolese people become proactive in adversity, the DRC will recover starting in the home, then the community, and eventually the nation.

What happens to the men after training with Sons of Congo?

Graduates become part of the solution in their homes and communities. They practice entrepreneurship and receive mentoring to succeed financially and impact their environments positively.

Is it hard to start a group?

No. Prospective leaders go through our seminars and receive guidance to establish their groups. We provide curriculum and follow-up consultations.

Is the curriculum exclusively for Congolese culture?

While tailored to the Congolese context, the lessons use Biblical principles and can be adapted for men of all cultures seeking to align with their God-given purpose.

Are there unexpected outcomes?

Yes. Small groups have started businesses in various fields to better provide for their families.

Spiritual Foundation

Sons of Congo uses a Bible study framework to demonstrate how women should be cherished and respected. Weekly small groups bring together community leaders—including men in churches, military, and police—to engage young men in conversations on taboo topics like sexual violence and empower them to change their attitudes towards women. Other topics include leadership development, self-identity, responsible masculinity, and respect for women and children.

Still have questions?