11/27/2024 DRC (International Christian Concern) — On Feb. 4, members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) stormed into a Christian village in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and abducted 15-year-old Kavira Dieulla, her family, and other villagers. 

For several years, the ADF and other Islamic extremist groups have committed countless atrocities against Christians in the DRC’s Eastern region, including mass killings, abductions, and other forms of violence.  

The horrific acts of violence that Dieulla witnessed and endured still haunt her. Dieulla herself was shot in the arm as she tried to flee. Instead of panicking, she played dead among the bodies that surrounded her. 

“The attackers rounded up many individuals from our village and subjected us to unimaginable terror,” she said.  

Dieulla ended up losing her arm, which is now a constant reminder of the ADF’s brutality.  

“Beyond the physical injury, she carries emotional scars from witnessing such brutality and losing her loved ones,” said Desange Maliro, Dieulla’s caregiver at the Tukinge Yatima orphanage.  

Despite the significant challenges she’s faced this year following the attack, Dieulla has demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination. Her education journey began with a strong desire to pursue a career in nutrition, recognizing the critical role that proper nutrition plays in health and well-being, especially in conflict-affected areas where food security is often compromised. 

“Kavira’s ultimate goal is to become a nutritionist who can contribute positively to her community,” said Bakwanamahwa Modesto, a local community leader. “She envisions herself working on programs that address malnutrition and promote healthy eating habits among vulnerable populations. By pursuing this dream, she aims to improve individual lives and foster community resilience against future crises.” 

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