Bunia – 20 August 2015: M’Hand Ladjouzi, chief of MONUSCO Office in Ituri, inaugurated a community center for child protection and mentoring, especially those affected by armed conflicts and in situation of vulnerability. At least 1800 children, including 600 affected by armed conflicts and 1200 other vulnerable children will receive assistance from this new center.

The project worth $ 100 000, exemplifies the good work done by MONUSCO in collaboration with local partners. It was launched on 20 March 2015; $70 000 were contributed via MONUSCO Quick Impact Projects and $ 30 000 were contributed by US Youth Community Development Association (AJEDEC). The facility hosts a nursery, a psycho-social counselling room and a room for accompanied children to learn a profession and be reintegrated.

The keys for the facility were handed to AJEDEC in the presence of the Chief of Unique Division, the chief of FARDC unit, the Chief of the Dele District, UNICEF representatives, formerly associated children to armed groups and Dele women’s associations.

M’Hand Ladjouzi, chief of MONUSCO Office said he was very moved when inaugurating the facility that would bring together communities and put at the heart of the peace process the most vulnerable children. He further said “MONUSCO should not restrict itself to turning over the keys but also follow up on the project to ensure a better future of the children affected by armed conflicts and those in the situation of vulnerability.

Aimé Birido, AJEDEC coordinator expressed gratitude to MONUSCO and the Congolese officials for their continued support. “With this jewel to ensure children’s protection and mentoring, Ituri province should not envy other provinces.”.

Before visiting the facility, children’s representative made an appeal to everyone willing to come and impart new skills to the children. He wrapped up the ceremony with these words “Tu nashukuru sana sana sana MONUSCO,” which means thanks profusely MONUSCO.