Survivor in a forgotten war
Melanie's testimony is raw and honest, but above all, she shows immense resilience.
Survivor in a forgotten war
Melanie is a survivor.
During the protracted and often forgotten fighting in eastern Congo, her life was changed forever. What happened to her is not an isolated incident. In a region rich in valuable raw materials, it is mainly girls and women who pay the highest price.
It started as a normal day. It ended in a horror that threatened my body and my future. But I am so much more than what was done to me. That is why I am telling my story today. Not to elicit pity, but to show that a future can grow again.
(Continue reading below the video)
Wealth beneath the ground, violence above it
The mines of eastern Congo supply raw materials that are used worldwide in smartphones and electric cars, among other things.
But violent conflict has been raging over this wealth for years. Armed groups are fighting for control, power and profit. They use sexual violence as a weapon of war.
Girls and women are systematically attacked, humiliated and broken, not only physically but also mentally and socially. For many, this means the loss of security, future and dignity.
(Continue reading below the photo)
Melanie's story of resilience
In our film, Resilience, Melanie shares her personal story. She talks about life in South Kivu, the area where Mamas for Africa works, and the long road from trauma to recovery.
Her testimony is raw and honest, but above all, she shows immense resilience.
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