Because of the unstable economy, work can be hard to find for people in the Congo. This man is selling pots.
Some people continue to work at traditional jobs, such as raising cattle for beef.
Raising Cattle
Other people work in the fields. These women are heading out to harvest a Congolese staple food, manioc.
Manioc is used to make a nutritious, filling food called fufu.
Others farm a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, then sell them at local markets.
Those who are able provide manual labor.
Congolese people are willing to do almost any job. Workers will often ride these big trucks out to the forest in the morning, then spend all day cutting bamboo.
Businesses can be started with only a small amount of startup capital – called “microbusiness loans.” MMH Hope provides these loans to people who want to improve their lives.
The loans are typically enough to purchase enough goods to buy and fill a small cart or stand.
The intent is for the small business to succeed well enough not only to support the entrepreneur and his or her family, but to enable them to pay back the loan, which can then be given to another person.
An Established Shop
Some of the more successful business sell souvenirs and unique Congolese crafts.
Shops
In addition to providing money to start small businesses, MMH Hope has provided sewing machines and training to dozens of women.
Click here to find out how you can help provide sewing machines and supplies, microbusiness loans, and vocational training to people in the Congo.
