Asifiwe learnt to process her pain, build resilience, and reclaim her sense of dignity and purpose.
Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, 30 November 2024
In the sprawling displacement site of Lushagala, nestled in the conflict-scarred region of Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, lives a woman whose story echoes resilience and hope. Asifiwe, a 45-year-old mother of eight, has faced trials that would break the strongest among us. Yet, through perseverance and support, she has transformed her pain into a beacon of hope for others.
On a fateful January day in 2023, Asifiwe’s life took a harrowing turn. As conflict engulfed her hometown of Kitchanga, she was forced to flee with her family, seeking refuge in Lushagala. The violence that plagued her country followed her even in displacement. In broad daylight, she became a victim of a brutal sexual and physical assault, a horrifying reality for many women in the DRC, where an estimated 48 women are raped every hour.
The physical aftermath of the attack left her with chronic abdominal and back pain, but the emotional scars ran even deeper. In a culture where survivors of sexual violence face stigma and ostracisation, Asifiwe feared abandonment by her husband and alienation from her community. She grappled with shame, psychological trauma, and a heavy burden of despair.
Despite these overwhelming challenges, Asifiwe’s journey to recovery began within 48 hours of the attack. Thanks to sensitisation campaigns funded by LM International in the displacement camp, she was aware of the importance of seeking immediate medical help. Breaking through societal norms and her own fears, she accessed vital medical treatment at Kyeshero Hospital. Her courage to act quickly not only saved her life but also marked the first step in her long path to healing.
Her treatment separated her from her family for two months, during which she had to confront the reality of her ordeal. Sharing her experience with her husband and children was one of the hardest moments in her journey, but it was also pivotal. Their support became a cornerstone of her recovery.
Asifiwe’s story did not end with treatment. The trauma, shame, and physical pain persisted, often leading to thoughts of suicide. But she found solace in a growing network of women within the camp who had endured similar experiences. Together, they formed a community of healing, proving that shared pain could foster strength and solidarity.
Through counseling, skill-building programs, and the support of organizations like Hope In Action, Asifiwe began to rebuild her life. She learned new skills that allowed her to start a small business, providing for her family and reclaiming her independence. More importantly, she reclaimed her dignity and a sense of purpose.
- Asifiwe Kamundu
Asifiwe’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It also sheds light on the pervasive issue of sexual violence in conflict zones and the dire need for societal and systemic change. Her story has inspired conversations within her community about supporting survivors and breaking the stigma surrounding sexual assault. 'I have learned the importance of seeking help and the power of community support,' she says. 'No woman should feel alone in her struggle.'
Asifiwe’s transformation from victim to survivor is a powerful reminder of the importance of organizations and individuals who provide support to those in need. It calls on all of us to advocate for survivors of violence and to contribute to initiatives that offer medical, psychological, and economic assistance.
Through her courage, Asifiwe not only reclaimed her life but also became a symbol of hope and resilience. Her story serves as an urgent plea to break the silence, eliminate stigma, and build a world where survivors are empowered to heal and thrive.
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Asifiwe has given consent for her name and photo to be used in sharing this story.