The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
Promoting peace and sustainable development in the Democratic Republic of Congo
UNOPS and the government of Germany's KfW Development Bank are working together to promote lasting peace, social cohesion and sustainable development in conflict-affected eastern provinces of the country.
Eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo have seen nearly 6 million people internally displaced (as of 31 May 2025).
The Peace Fund – a five-year, €54.3 million project signed with KfW Development Bank – will promote lasting peace, social cohesion and sustainable development in the conflict-affected eastern provinces as well as help prevent juvenile violence in Kinshasa.
"By targeting post-conflict areas in the east and the prevention of juvenile violence in Kinshasa, this initiative directly addresses the strategic axes of our 2025-2029 Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework," said Guylain Nyembo, Minister of Planning and Coordination of Development Aid, Democratic Republic of Congo.
Implemented by UNOPS in partnership with the international non-governmental organization Interpeace, the project will use labour-intensive works to provide a source of income to vulnerable populations, offering an alternative to violence.
As part of the project, infrastructure that fosters peace and socio-economic development – such as schools, markets, youth centres and health clinics – will be constructed in the eastern part of the country. Productive sectors will also be strengthened, and conflict resolution capacities will be built up, directly impacting more than 650,000 people.
This is more than a project – it’s an investment in the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
"By empowering communities to lead their own peacebuilding efforts, we are helping them create the stable, prosperous future they deserve. Our partnership with KfW and Interpeace allows us to link urgent infrastructure needs with a long-term vision for peace and resilience," said Nathalie Angibeau.
New and improved social infrastructure providing professional education, training and entrepreneurship support will also be built for youth in two neighbourhoods in Kinshasa, helping to improve access to social services and activities.
The Peace Fund project is an excellent example of how targeted investments can contribute to both poverty reduction and local conflict resolution," said Jonas Blume, Head of Division, Biodiversity, Health, Peace Central Africa, KfW.
"The focus on proactive peace and community-based solutions aligns perfectly with our commitment to achieving sustainable development in fragile contexts," he added.
As the lead implementer, UNOPS will be responsible for the overall coordination, infrastructure components and financial management. Interpeace will ensure that peacebuilding, social cohesion and gender inclusion are integrated throughout all phases of the project.
Read more here.