COSAWOH: Acting for the Dignity and Well-being of Communities
Founded in 2017, the COOPERATION TO SAVE THE WORLD AND HUMANITY (COSAWOH) is a non-governmental organization active in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Its headquarters are located in Bukavu, at No. 317, Avenue Emery Patrice Lumumba, Nyalukemba District, Ibanda Commune, South Kivu Province. COSAWOH operates in accordance with the provisions of Law No. 004/2001 of July 20, 2001 governing non-profit associations in the DRC. The organization is firmly committed to supporting communities in promoting well-being, social justice, and environmental protection. In a context marked by numerous challenges, it deploys concrete and multisectoral actions to meet essential community needs and build a sustainable future.
The protection of vulnerable populations lies at the heart of COSAWOH’s mission. In the face of humanitarian crises, violence, and inequalities, the organization implements targeted interventions to ensure security, justice, and respect for fundamental rights.
Protection Program:
Child Protection (CP): COSAWOH works to prevent and combat all forms of abuse, exploitation, and neglect of children. We establish community protection mechanisms and educational programs to safeguard their well-being and future.
Combating Gender-Based Violence (GBV): The organization supports survivors of sexual and gender-based violence through medical, psychosocial, and legal services. We also conduct awareness campaigns to promote equality and prevent discrimination.
Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA): COSAWOH enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy against sexual abuse and exploitation. We strengthen the capacities of communities and local institutions to detect, prevent, and respond effectively to such violations.
Housing, Land and Property (HLP) Assistance and Social Cohesion (SC): We support displaced and vulnerable families in accessing decent housing, securing land, and protecting property rights. These actions foster stability and livelihood recovery. COSAWOH also promotes reconciliation and peace through community dialogues, cultural activities, and mediation initiatives. Social cohesion is a key pillar for preventing conflict and strengthening solidarity.
Mine Action (MA): In areas affected by mines and explosive remnants of war, we conduct awareness campaigns, risk education, and victim assistance. These actions save lives and help communities regain safe environments.
Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS): COSAWOH supports individuals affected by trauma, violence, and crises through psychosocial services and mental health programs. We foster both individual and collective resilience.
Health and Nutrition Program: COSAWOH implements prevention and treatment programs against malnutrition while improving access to primary healthcare. We support women and children through awareness campaigns and balanced nutrition initiatives.
Water, Hygiene and Sanitation (WASH) Program: The organization invests in the construction of safe water points, promotion of community hygiene, and establishment of adapted sanitation systems. These actions reduce waterborne diseases and improve quality of life.
Digital and Inclusion Program: COSAWOH promotes access to digital technologies for youth and women by developing training and innovation spaces. The goal is to reduce the digital divide and open new opportunities in education and employment.
Economic Recovery and Employability Program: We support local entrepreneurship, income-generating activities, and vocational training. These initiatives strengthen household economic resilience and provide sustainable employment opportunities.
Food Security and Protection Program: COSAWOH develops sustainable agricultural projects, encourages crop diversification, and supports producers in improving techniques. We work toward food sovereignty that ensures families' nutritional security.
Environmental Protection: The organization conducts reforestation campaigns, climate change awareness, and ecological resource management. These actions aim to preserve biodiversity and combat ecosystem degradation.
Education Program: COSAWOH places education at the heart of its mission to build an educated, responsible and resilient society. Its Education Program aims to strengthen the foundations of the education system and promote comprehensive training for children, young people and adults. The strategic priorities are: Quality of teaching: improving teaching methods, continuous teacher training and provision of teaching materials. Good school governance: support for transparent and participatory management of educational institutions. Strengthening the education system: advocacy for inclusive and sustainable education policies. Literacy: basic education programs for out-of-school youth and adults. Education for citizenship, peace and life: raising awareness of civic values, peaceful coexistence and social responsibility. Leadership: training young leaders capable of contributing to community development. Education for the most vulnerable: specific support for disadvantaged and displaced children, girls and persons with disabilities. Family education: supporting parents in their educational role and promoting family cohesion. Through these actions, COSAWOH contributes to: Raising the quality of teaching. Promoting responsible educational governance. Reducing inequalities in access to education. Training active, peaceful and committed citizens. Strengthening families as the first educational units.
Through these interventions, COSAWOH translates its vision of a world where every individual has access to health, safe drinking water, balanced nutrition, economic opportunities, and a healthy environment. Our commitment is clear: to build resilient, autonomous communities that respect the planet. Together, we work so that human dignity and the safeguarding of creation remain at the heart of development.
