ABOUT

Mama Cecile was born in Kyavinyonge, a small fishing village in Butembo Territory, East Congo. Nestled along the shores of Lake Victoria, this coastal village has long been known for its fishing activities. However, due to ongoing conflict and war in East Congo, Cecile was forced to flee her homeland. She lived as a refugee in Uganda before eventually resettling in the United States with her family.

​

Despite the physical distance, Cecile remained deeply connected to her village and its people. Her heart is always with them. Driven by the struggles she and her family faced and moved by a tragic event when she learned about the deaths of fishermen in Lake Victoria at the hands of the Ugandan maritime guards. Cecile felt a profound call to action. The frequent loss of lives among Kyavinyonge's fishermen left many widows and orphans, exacerbating hunger and poverty in the village. Fishing, once a vital source of income, had dwindled, and the community suffered from malnutrition, lack of education, and severe economic hardship.

​

In response, Cecile decided to establish a community center dedicated to addressing these pressing issues. The center focuses on providing meals for malnourished children, offering vocational training for youth, granting small business loans to women, and raising awareness about the dangers of Lake Victoria.

​

With the support of generous donors and supporters, Cecile is now building a substantial community center in Kyavinyonge. This facility will serve as a hub for education and skill development, empowering the youth and fostering economic and social growth for the village and its surrounding areas.