📋 Tender Overview
This nexus project focuses on strengthening cross-border trade as a vehicle for better understanding and greater interdependence between communities divided on both sides of the borders of the DRC, Rwanda and Burundi. The project contributes to the objectives of the Great Lakes Regional Programme 2022-2025 which aims at consolidating peace and transforming and preventing recurring conflicts in the region and the economic development of vulnerable people.
Country/region Topic Period Budget
Democratic Republic Congo
Employment & economic development
nothemedefined
Business support & economic inclusion
Employment creation
Social protection
15.10.2023 - 30.09.2027
CHF 2’855’000
The project in brief
Background Relations between the Great Lakes countries have long been marked by political and diplomatic tensions and security challenges that have negative repercussions deep into border societies and communities. Cross-border trade and equitable access to resources can serve as a vector for peace. Based on this, the project develops the capacities of women and young cross-border traders and private sector actors to become more involved in peace and security issues, and promotes inclusive economic growth to address economic inequalities that contribute to conflict.
Objectives Strengthen peace and stability in the region.
Target groups - Cross-border traders (80% women) and their partners/wives/husbands - Cross-border trade association platforms - Small and medium-sized business leaders - Trade authorities and border services
Medium-term outcomes 1. Social cohesion and trust in and between cross-border communities are strengthened through the involvement of economic actors at different levels. 2. Trade, regional integration and economic development are more inclusive and conflict sensitive.
Results Expected results: - Women cross-border traders and young entrepreneurs have the skills and space to promote social cohesion at the community level. - Private sector actors engage in more conflict-sensitive and inclusive economic initiatives. - Women cross-border traders and young entrepreneurs have access to services, economic capital and markets.
Results from previous phases: - Transformed gender relations within households - Strengthened economic autonomy and influence of women cross-border traders to promote more inclusive and peaceful engagement between cross-border communities - Improved trust, communication and understanding between cross-border authorities - More systematic coordination and a more institutional approach are needed to ensure strong results. - Work on sustainability and strengthening the systemic effects of the project is a key area.
Directorate/federal office responsible SDC
Project partners Contract partner
International or foreign NGO
Other international or foreign NGO North
International Alert
Coordination with other projects and actors - Swiss portfolio: Citizen Participation and Conflict Prevent
