CLI develops the next generation of leaders to be catalysts for peace and prosperity in the Congo.
CLI develops the next generation of leaders to be catalysts for peace and prosperity in the Congo.
CLI empowers young people in the Congo by preparing them to be leaders with a proven curriculum. Why?
Because we know that the ultimate solutions to the Congo's problems will come from the Congolese people.
The result of our program is a cohort of skilled leaders sparking true development across the Congo.
If you're wondering what CLI's program is like, take a look at My Community, one of the lessons included in the Leadership Accelerator.
For an idea of the incredible impact CLI has on young people's lives, watch this video about an amazing young leader named Joelle!
CLI is proud to partner with Educate! to bring a top-notch curriculum to our young leaders. Please visit Educate!
here.
By any measure, the DRC is one of the world’s least developed countries. The Congo is listed as one of the worst places to be a woman, with 1,152 women and girls raped daily. The life expectancy of the average Congolese person is a little over 55 years due to the lack of sanitary water, medication, and health care. The Congo continues to be ravaged by a dizzying array of rebel groups, and contains hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of internally displaced people and refugees. Nevertheless, the DRC is inhabited by some of the most resilient and inspirational people in the world! It is the strength of these people that inspires us daily.
There is a reason for the Congo’s lack of development. Since independence in 1960, the people have lacked the guidance of leaders who have the interests of the Congolese as a top priority. Dictator Mobutu Sese Seko’s reign consisted of corruption, human rights atrocities, embezzlement, and political oppression. Laurent-Desire Kabila, the rebel leader who claimed the Presidency from Mobuto, was also unable to provide sound solutions for the country. As a result, the people of the DRC still suffered under war, poverty, and disease. When Kabila was assassinated in 2001, his son Joseph took over as president. Though the current situation has not worsened, it has certainly not improved, as evidenced by ambiguity and violence surrounding recent elections (won once again by Mr. Kabila). Still, the young people in the Congo are ripe with potential to change the situation.
