Global Faiths Coalition member from DR Congo shows its support for Chibok girls

Pax Christi Uvira, a member of the Global Faiths Coalition for Education (GFC Education) from the Democratic Republic of Congo, marked the 100th day the Nigerian schoolgirls from Chibok have been held captive by Boko Haram with a special message of support:

“Pax Christi Uvira of Uvira, D.R. Congo, demands the unconditional release of the more than 200 Nigerian schoolgirls kidnapped more than 100 days ago by Boko Haram.

The fundamental rights of these girls must not be violated: They must be guaranteed Access to education, freedom of religion and protection against child marriage, rape, sexual exploitation, female genital mutilation and political exploitation. 

Nigeria and the international community have a responsibility to protect the girls’ rights under international standards of human rights.”

Pax Christi Uvira was one of the many supporters who held vigils around the world to mark the schoolgirls’ 100th day in captivity. Many have also signed an online petition by A World at School – which you can sign on this page – calling for the safe return of the girls. Messages of support can be left along with the petition and will be passed to Chibok community leaders and families of the girls.

Pax Christi Uvira’s support comes at a difficult time for the organisation. On the night of July 11, a fire burned down Pax Chriti Uvira’s office – destroying everything in their possession, from printers, to telephones, to books and documents. After working for 13 years to get children in D.R. Congo into school by helping to pay fees and build classrooms, among other efforts, Pax Christi Uvira has had to significantly reduce their operations and stop providing assistance to children in Uvira. The organisation is now asking partners and supporters for any assistance they can provide.

To find out how you can help the organisation get back to its normal operations please contact Jean-Jaques Nganya at [email protected] and visit www.paxchristiuvira.org (French).