Socioeconomic Impact of International NGO Activities in the DRC

This study consisted of an analysis of the socioeconomic impact of international nongovernmental organizations' (INGOs) activities on the development process in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Focusing on the IRC's Tuungane and Health programs (implemented in the territories of Kalehe, Walungu, and Kabare between 2009 and 2013). This study is part of the complex debate on the effectiveness of international aid in a post-conflict context. It analyzes the actual impact of interventions by international nongovernmental organizations (INGOs)-specifically the International Rescue Committee (IRC)-on the living conditions of populations in the territories of Kalehe, Walungu, and Kabare in South Kivu.Research Question: The study is based on a paradox observed between 2009 and 2013: despite a massive presence of INGO and the implementation of large-scale programs such as "Tuungane" (community governance) and the "Health" program, local development indicators have struggled to stabilize. The central question of this study is whether these interventions constitute a structural and sustainable response to the development challenges in these territories.