Blog DRC: Women Cultivating Resilience Through Bean Farming in Conflict Zones

by Bola Amoke Awotide, Jean Claude Rubyogo, Lydie Mulonda, Lulu Joseph Iwamba, Paulin Njingulula, Napoleon Kajunju, Julie Ntamwinja, Lucky Kalisya, Ntukamazina Nepomuscene

onMarch 18, 2025

Amid ongoing conflicts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), an innovative agricultural initiative is cultivating hope. Centered around beans—a vital and nutritious staple—the "Beans for Women Empowerment" (B4WE) project empowers local women farmers. By positioning women at the forefront of agricultural recovery, the program tackles the dual challenges of combating hunger and rebuilding communities.

Conflict and Food Insecurity: Agriculture in Peril

For decades, the eastern provinces of the DRC, particularly North Kivu and South Kivu, have been ravaged by armed conflicts. The resurgence of clashes, notably with the M23 rebel group, has led to massive population displacements, leaving thousands of families without resources. Farmers and partners of the Beans for Women Empowerment project in the Eastern DRC (B4WE) have seen their harvests looted, and in many areas, access to fields has become impossible.

This crisis has also severely disrupted financial systems, with banks and money transfer services blocked, making it difficult for partners and beneficiaries to access funds. Additionally, seed and food storage facilities, along with partner offices in Goma-North Kivu province, have been ransacked. These challenges seriously compromise regional food security and threaten agricultural communities.

If these disruptions are not quickly addressed, they could exacerbate an already alarming food insecurity.

"Even though the country is in crisis, people still need to eat, and we must do everything possible to get seeds to the partners", emphasizes Lydie Mulonda, seed systems specialist for the B4WE project.

The B4WE Project: Solutions to Overcome the Crisis

The B4WE project, funded by Global Affairs Canada and coordinated by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, is vital in supporting vulnerable women and farmers. In the face of the ongoing crisis, the initiative focuses on ensuring continuous access to quality seeds to sustain agricultural production.

For the current agricultural season, the project has prioritized the production of 5,200 kg of basic seeds of various varieties in collaboration with the National Institute for Agricultural Study and Research (INERA). The production of certified seeds also continues with key partners in the Eastern DRC, particularly in the North Kivu, South Kivu, and Tanganyika provinces.

DRC Women Cultivating Resilience Through Bean Farming in Conflict Zones - Image 1 — Off-loading the seed from INERA-Mulungu from the Emmanuel Boat in Goma, North Kivu.

Despite logistical challenges, alternative solutions have been implemented. Seeds are being transported using commercial boats and local transporters to reach remote territories like Rutshuru, Masisi, and Nyiragongo.

"The situation is already extremely difficult, but it will become even more critical if food stocks run out in the coming weeks and months," warns Reverend Elias Ntahobari Habimana, director of the AJECDEKI seed company, one of the key project partners in the North Kivu province.

In South Kivu and Tanganyika provinces, certain territories—such as Uvira, Fizi, Kalemie, and Moba—remain inaccessible. To ensure agricultural continuity, even amid conflict, the project encourages partners to replant first-generation harvested seeds. This strategy helps preserve farmers' autonomy and strengthens resilience in the face of the ongoing crisis.

"Ensuring the project's continuity is crucial, as displaced and returning families face acute food insecurity," reminds Mrs. Zaina Hakizinka Joanna, chairperson of the Tuungana Cooperative’s Board of Directors.

Women at the Heart of Resilience and Reconstruction

Beyond seed distribution, the B4WE project is dedicated to empowering rural women. In crisis contexts where gender-based violence often escalates, the initiative provides training in leadership, economic empowerment, and decision-making.

Social Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) training is offered on-site where security allows and remotely in higher-risk areas. These sessions equip women to strengthen their roles within agricultural communities, advocate for their rights, and actively contribute to the revival of food production.

Continuity of project activities in the territory of Masisi, North Kivu.

Packaging of small packs of quality certified bean seeds ready for distribution to farm households.

A Horizon of Hope and a Call for Solidarity

As the crisis in the DRC intensifies, the B4WE project remains a symbol of resilience and hope. More than a seed distribution program, it is a holistic approach aimed at sustainably transforming the lives of women and rural families. By supporting local production, B4WE helps strengthen food security, and prevent malnutrition in a region severely affected by conflict.

Despite the challenges, the project's commitment to women and displaced farmers remains unwavering. It embodies a long-term reconstruction strategy based on the ability of communities to produce their food, regain economic autonomy, and build a more stable future.

As insecurity persists, every support initiative counts. By backing B4WE’s efforts—whether through funding, partnerships, or advocacy—it is possible to provide rural women in eastern DRC with the means to recover and rebuild their communities. Where conflict brings destruction, the project cultivates life, restores land, and nurtures hope.