The Toyokana Center in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is establishing itself as a crucial facility for girls affected by sexual violence. Opened to address the alarming rates of sexual assault against minors, the center relies on a holistic approach that not only provides medical treatment but also emotional support in a safe environment.
### Listening and Healing
At its core, the Toyokana Center embodies the meaning of “toyokana,” a word in Lingala translating to “let’s listen to one another.” This ethos shapes the center’s mission, which is designed to create a welcoming space for girls who have endured sexual violence. According to social worker Loa Falone, the demand for such a facility emerged directly from the girls themselves. Many victims face the challenge of disclosing their experiences, particularly when the assault occurs within their families, leading to feelings of isolation and helplessness.
The establishment of the Toyokana Center stemmed from a gathering of young women across the DRC and neighboring countries in 2022. Discussions highlighted a significant prevalence of sexual violence among the participants, prompting a call for dedicated support services. Ramatou Toure, chief of child protection at UNICEF DRC, notes that the majority of attendees were either survivors of sexual violence or closely connected to someone affected.
### Escalating Crisis of Sexual Violence
Recent reports from UNICEF underscore a troubling trend: sexual violence against children in the DRC has increased over the past four years, with more than 45,000 reported cases last year alone. However, experts caution that this number likely underrepresents the reality, as societal stigma often prevents disclosures. Toure attributes the rise in sexual violence not only to ongoing conflicts in eastern DRC, which have displaced millions and worsened conditions, but also to rampant urban poverty and child marriage across regions lacking active conflict.
These interconnected issues create an environment where many victims feel they will not be taken seriously, dissuading them from seeking necessary services and support.
### Comprehensive Care for Survivors
The Toyokana Center’s services reflect an understanding of the complexities facing survivors of sexual violence. In addition to addressing physical trauma, the center provides psychological support for emotional and mental health challenges that often arise from such experiences, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Many survivors grapple with feelings of worthlessness or shame that can lead to further isolation, as highlighted by therapist Annie Kikoli.
During group sessions, staff members keenly observe girls who hesitate to speak, offering them opportunities to share their stories in private spaces, thus fostering a sense of trust. The center also assists with educational needs, helping girls develop skills in literacy, which are often lacking due to their difficult circumstances. Georgette Uma, a supervisor at Toyokana, recounts the transformative journey of a girl who, after receiving care, became a motivational figure for others.
### Funding and Resource Challenges
Despite having treated over 100,000 girls since its inception, the Toyokana Center acknowledges that it cannot meet the growing demand for services alone. Uma emphasizes the need for expanded resources, particularly in conflict-stricken regions where the demand for support far outstrips available services. However, a recent downturn in foreign assistance funding has raised concerns about the future viability of such support programs. Funding for initiatives like Toyokana has seen a dramatic reduction, with estimates dropping from $18 million in 2024 to $10 million in 2025, according to Toure.
This funding gap poses significant obstacles to progress, as local programs previously established to respond to sexual violence face severe disruptions. Toure and her colleagues are advocating for a restoration and increase in funding, arguing that when resources are available, communities can effectively address and respond to instances of sexual violence.
### Structural Changes Needed for Long-term Solutions
Addressing the immediate needs of survivors through care centers like Toyokana is critical, but long-term solutions require a comprehensive approach to resolving the broader societal issues contributing to this crisis. Toure emphasizes the necessity of achieving peace in eastern DRC and reforming the criminal justice system to ensure accountability for perpetrators.
While achieving structural changes will take time, the work being done at the Toyokana Center illustrates that focused efforts can foster hope and healing in communities affected by violence. Toure remains optimistic, asserting that initiatives like Toyokana can make a difference, emphasizing that “it’s not a hopeless case.”
Ultimately, the Toyokana Center stands as a beacon of hope and a model for community-driven action, addressing one of the most pressing public health issues affecting children in the DRC today. As the facility continues to evolve, the emphasis remains on listening, healing, and empowering young girls to reclaim their narratives.
Source reference: Full report
About The Author
