Research dossier: DR Congo, Gradido, Open Source & Ubuntu

Youth, community and bottom-up transformation for prosperity and the future

Comprehensive research dossier on the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Status: February 2026

Executive Summary

The Democratic Republic of Congo is at a critical turning point in its history. Despite its immense wealth of natural resources, 75% of the population live in extreme poverty (less than USD 2.15/day). The country is experiencing one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world, exacerbated by the conflict in the east with over 6.5 million internally displaced persons. At the same time, there is enormous potential for transformation: a young, mobilizable Gen Z, deeply rooted Ubuntu traditions of community solidarity, emerging digital innovation and growing engagement of women as changemakers. This dossier analyzes how the Gradido model combined with open source innovation and Ubuntu values could catalyze a bottom-up transformation process.

1. current political, economic and social situation

1.1 Political situation

System of government and democracy:

• Presidential republicFélix Tshisekedi in office since January 2019, re-elected for a second term in December 2023

• 26 provinces with their own parliaments and governments since 2015

• Bicameral parliamentNational Assembly and Senate

• Legal certaintySeverely restricted by arbitrary security and judicial authorities

• CorruptionRanking 169 out of 180 countries in the Transparency International Index

• Human rightsTense situation, especially in the east due to armed conflicts

Current conflict situation (as of February 2026):

• East DR Congo: Ongoing fighting between M23 militia (supported by Rwanda) and Congolese army

• January 2025Dramatic escalation with capture of Goma, Bukavu and Uvira by M23

• 6.5 million internally displaced persons, including 2.6 million children in North and South Kivu

• Humanitarian crisis21 million people in need of emergency aid (UN OCHA)

• Peace agreementImplementation continues to falter (Africa Peace Agreements Barometer, January 2026)

Civil society: A vibrant and resilient civil society acts as an important supervisory authority despite difficult conditions.

1.2 Economic situation

Macroeconomic key figures:

• GDP growth: 5% forecasts for 2025, despite conflicts

• Per capita income: One of the lowest in the world

• Poverty75% of the population live below 2.15 USD/day (World Bank)

• IndebtednessModerate, but structural challenges

Resource wealth vs. poverty - the paradox:

• CobaltOver 50% of global reserves, 70% of global production

• Copper: Fourth largest producer worldwide

• Other mineral resources: Gold, diamonds, coltan, lithium - essential for the energy transition

• ProblemIllegal mining, corruption, lack of value creation in the country

• Estimated lossesHundreds of millions of USD due to corruption in state-owned companies (e.g. Gécamines audit 2022)

Conflict minerals:

• M23 earns approx. 1 million USD/month through illegal taxation of minerals

• 120 tons of coltan illegally smuggled from Rubaya to Rwanda every month

• Gold was Rwanda's No. 1 export - mostly illegal from DR Congo

Sectoral structure:

• Agriculture40% of GDP, employs 70% of the population

• MiningDominates exports, but little local value creation

• Services: Growing, especially mobile telecommunications

Currency situation:

• Dual currencyCongolese franc (CDF) and US dollar in parallel circulation

• Liquidity crisis in Goma (as of June 2025): Banks closed for 4 months, black market for currency exchange flourishes

• Mobile Money29 million active users (30.5% population), rapid growth +14% per quarter

1.3 Social situation and challenges

Poverty and hunger:

• Extreme poverty: 75% of the population

• Malnutrition: Every third person, 8% of children under 5 years underweight

• Infant mortality: 99.39‰ - every thirteenth child dies before their 5th birthday

• Life expectancy55-60 years (below African average)

• World Hunger Index 2024Situation classified as „serious

Education:

• School closures: Over 2,500 schools closed in North and South Kivu (as of February 2025)

• 795,000 children without access to education in North/South Kivu

• 1.6 million children total without schooling in the East (incl. Ituri)

• Education systemHighly deficient, in many places only maintained by churches/NGOs

• Girls' education: Only 16.8% of women have completed secondary school

Health:

• No health insuranceAll medical treatments must be paid for in cash in advance

• Mpox/Cholera: Epidemics under control, but permanent vigilance necessary (Feb. 2026)

• Sexualized violence80,000 documented cases of rape Jan.-Sept. 2025 (UNFPA)

• Health infrastructure: Collapsed in conflict areas

Gender inequality:

• Global Gender Gap Index 2024Rank 140 out of 146 countries

• Domestic violence: Over 50% of women affected

• Child marriagesAlmost 40% marry before the age of 18

• Political participation: Only 7% women in high government/parliamentary positions

• Economic participation: Severely restricted by discrimination and lack of education

Climate change and agriculture:

• Vulnerability: 4th least prepared country for climate shocks (Notre Dame Index 2021)

• Dependence: 70% of the population dependent on rain-fed agriculture

• Effects: Changing precipitation patterns, rising temperatures, extreme weather threaten food security

• Deforestation: Over 500,000 hectares lost in 2022, second highest deforestation rate after Brazil

2. gen Z, youth and protest movements

2.1 Demographic dynamics

Youth as a majority:

• Population: Over 100 million (as of 2024), fourth most populous country in Africa

• 46% under 14 years - one of the youngest populations in the world

• Median age: Under 20 years

• urbanizationRapidly growing, especially in Kinshasa (15+ million inhabitants)

2.2 Gen Z mobilization and protests

„Génération Z RDC“ - Goma Youth Coalition (January 2026): One of the most impressive manifestations of youth self-organization took place in Goma at the end of 2025/beginning of 2026:

• January 2, 2026Announced peace march of the „Génération Z RDC“

• Aims of the protest:

  • Denouncing the violation of Congolese territorial integrity by Rwanda

  • Demand for immediate withdrawal of M23/Rwandan troops (UN Resolution 2773)

  • Uncovering war crimes (massacres, torture, sexual violence, child abduction, forced recruitment)

  • International jurisdiction before the ICC

• Constitutional basisCitation of Articles 22, 23, 25, 26 of the 2006 Constitution

• Organizational formCoalition of youth, civil society, grassroots movements

• CommunicationLetter to Mayor of Goma, copied to MONUSCO, UN Human Rights Office, HRW, Amnesty International

Character of the Gen Z movement:

• Digitally organizedCoordination via social media despite restrictions

• Loyalty to the constitution: Appeal to legitimate rights, peaceful mobilization

• Pan-African inspirationPart of global Gen Z protest wave 2025 (Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, Morocco)

• ClaimsAccountability, sovereignty, human rights, end of impunity

2.3 Global context: Gen Z protest wave 2025

The DR Congo is part of a global Gen Z protest wave, which covered numerous countries in 2025:

Regional examples:

• Kenya: continuation of 2024 protests, at least 31 dead, focus on corruption, cost of living, police violence

• Tanzania: Anti-government protests after October 2025 elections, allegations of electoral fraud

• MadagascarProtests against water/electricity shortages, military coup in October 2025

• Morocco: „GenZ 212“ movement calls for reforms in health, education, youth unemployment 36%

Common features:

• Digitally coordinatedTikTok, Instagram, Discord as organization platforms

• Decentralized: No hierarchical structures

• ClaimsAnti-corruption, economic justice, accountability, future opportunities

• High price: Deaths, injuries, arrests, traumatized generations

2.4 Challenges and potential

Challenges:

• State repressionInternet shutdown, arrests, police violence

• Fragmentation: Different ethnic/regional identities make unity difficult

• Lack of infrastructureEducation, jobs, economic prospects

• Conflict contextRecruitment by armed groups, forced recruitment of young people

Potential for bottom-up transformation:

• Mobilization abilityProven ability to self-organize

• Digital competenceUse of social media despite restrictions

• Constitutional awareness: Appeal to legitimate rights

• Non-violenceEmphasis on peaceful forms of protest

• Gender equality: Growing involvement of young women

• Pan-African consciousness: Connection to regional movements

Inspiring original sound (from Goma protest letter):

„This civic duty obliges us to organize a peaceful march through the city of Goma... We call on the international community to ensure that perpetrators of crimes against humanity are brought to justice in international courts, including the ICC.“

3. ubuntu philosophy, community & social structures

3.1 Ubuntu in the Congolese context

Definition and meaning: Ubuntu is a central cultural capacity of sub-Saharan African cultures that Mutuality, dignity, compassion, harmony and humanity in the interest of building a community with justice and mutual care.

Core principles:

• „I am because we are“ (Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu)

• CollectivismCommunity orientation over individualism

• Mutual dependence: Recognizing the interconnectedness of all people

• Social cohesion: Cohesion through shared responsibility

• Dignity for all: Every person has inherent value

Ubuntu values in the DR Congo:

• Mutual care„Caring for each other's well-being“

• Shared well-being: Individual happiness inseparable from the common good

• SolidarityCohesion in the face of adversity

• Forgiveness and reconciliationRestorative justice instead of retribution

• Respect for older peoplePassing on wisdom and tradition

3.2 Ubuntu as a counterforce to conflict and violence

Research findings on the significance for DR Congo:

A scientific paper (AJHSSR Journal 2021, Ubuntu Philosophy and its Significance for D.R. Congo: Bonding Citizens Together) underlines:

„The failure to embrace Ubuntu in a country like DR Congo has manifested itself through violence and endless warfare... Ubuntu is a normative philosophy of how people should treat each other. It is collectivist in orientation - expressing the value of collaboration, cooperation and community. It embodies an ethic of care and respect for others and the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity.“

Ubuntu as a solution:

• Reconstruction of the state-citizen relationship: Ubuntu values necessary to overcome state collapse

• Overcoming conflictsAlternative to revenge, retaliation, confrontation

• Social cohesionRestoring trust and mutual support

• Shared identity: Across ethnic, regional, religious divisions

3.3 Practical manifestations in everyday life and the neighborhood

Rural communities:

• Collective workJoint field work, house building, infrastructure projects

• Resource sharingShared harvests, mutual support in times of need

• Conflict resolution: Village elders and community mediation

• Rituals and festivals: Joint ceremonies strengthen cohesion

Urban communities:

• Neighborhood helpInformal networks of mutual support

• Street committeesSelf-organization for safety, cleanliness, infrastructure

• ParishesCenters of social cohesion and practical solidarity

• Informal marketsDivided economic areas, mutual lending

Women's cooperatives and care work: Women play a Central role in the maintenance of Ubuntu practices:

• „Tontines“ (savings and credit associations): Rotating savings and credit system among women

• Collective childcare: Shared responsibility for education

• Common agriculture: Women's groups cultivate fields together

• Market communities: Traders support each other

• Peace work: Women as mediators in conflicts

Inspiring examples:

• Painted parts practiceSharing food, supporting the needy, respect for the elderly are daily practices

• Crisis resilience: In conflict zones, communities survive through mutual support

• Refugee campsIDPs organize themselves according to Ubuntu principles

3.4 Role of women and youth in crisis management

Women as „Ubuntu wearers“:

• Food security: 70% Agriculture supported by women

• Economic resilience: Informal economy to 60-80% dominated by women

• Social cohesion: Women as bridge builders between groups

• Peace work: Women's networks for dialog and reconciliation

Example: Women Empowerment Program (CMS-Africa, Kindu):

• 62 Women trained in business and financial management (May 2025)

• GoalEconomic independence, increased self-esteem

• MethodChurch-based savings groups, cooperative formation (5-year target)

• Original sound of participant: „Through this training, I discovered my life goal and how to better manage my family finances“

Example: Beans4Women (North Kivu, South Kivu, Tanganyika):

• 2 million beneficiaries (60% women/girls)

• Focus: Bean value chain, gender equality, land rights

• MethodWomen-owned businesses, cooperatives, access to productive resources

• Addition: Climate-resilient technologies, food security

Youth in crisis management:

• Informal education: Young people organize community schools

• Technology: Digital literacy initiatives for peers

• Peace workYouth groups for interethnic dialog

• Economic innovationStart-ups and social enterprises

4. digitalization, open source & innovation

4.1 Status of digitization and infrastructure

Telecommunications and connectivity:

• Internet penetration: About 19% (2024) - low, but growing

• Mobile subscribers: Over 30 million

• Mobile network operatorVodacom, Orange, Airtel, Africell as main players

• Mobile Money29 million active users (30.5% population), +14% growth per quarter

• East DR CongoNorth Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri together 6.5 million Mobile Money subscriptions (22.5% national)

Challenges:

• Infrastructure deficits: Unreliable power supply, limited network coverage in rural areas

• Economic barriersHigh costs for devices and data packages

• EducationDigital illiteracy in large parts of the population

• Gender gapWomen/girls have less access to technology

4.2 National digitization strategy

National Digital Plan 2026-2030 (PNN2) - Launched in October 2025:

Four main pillars:

1. Infrastructure & connectivity55,000 km national fiber optic network, satellite connection

2. Digital public platformsE-government, blockchain-based digital IDs

3. Human capitalDigital education, inclusion, skills development

4. CybersecurityDigital trust, data protection

Five cross-cutting issues:

• Digital entrepreneurship

• Innovation

• Technological sovereignty

• Artificial intelligence (first national AI strategy)

• Strategic partnerships

Financing:

• 1 billion USD Public funds over 5 years

• 500 million USD international partners already secured

• GoalDR Congo as a regional digital hub by 2030

E-Government & Blockchain:

• Blockchain-based digital IDsPilot project launched

• Land title register: Blockchain against corruption and land grabbing

• Tier 3 data center already in operation in Kinshasa

• Confidence buildingTransparency through unchangeable data records

4.3 Tech hubs, innovation hubs and start-up ecosystem

SilikinVillage Kinshasa (opening October 2024):

• Largest digital start-up center the DR Congo

• Capacity: 800 start-ups, SMEs and large companies

• Surface area6,000 m² modern infrastructure

• EquipmentCo-working spaces, meeting rooms, auditorium

• SupportCongolese Government, World Bank, TEXAF Group

• VisionDR Congo as a key player in the global digital economy

• Goal: Supporting Congolese millionaires, developing tech talent

Kinshasa Digital:

• Influential tech community in the capital

• Function: Catalyst for digital transformation

• OfferResources, training, networking for local innovators

• Focus: Solutions for Congolese challenges

Orange Corners program:

• Support: Dutch government

• Target group: Young Congolese entrepreneurs

• MethodMentoring, funding, focus on sustainable business practices

Further initiatives:

• Hackathons: Regular events for tech talents

• Coding Schools: Training for young people

• Accelerator programsSupport for scaling

4.4 Open source communities and potentials

Current open source dynamics: While specific Congolese open source communities appear less prominent in the research, regional examples (Kenya, Rwanda) show the potential:

Regional inspiration - OpenDigital Hub (Sierra Leone):

• Open Source & Digital Public Goods HubPromotion of open digital solutions

• Digital Public InfrastructureStrengthening governments and communities

• Open Source AdvocacyCreation, hosting, adoption of open solutions

Potential for DR Congo:

• Cost efficiencyOpen source reduces dependence on expensive licenses

• Local customizationCommunities can modify software for their own needs

• Competence buildingLearning through participation in global projects

• Transparency: Open source supports anti-corruption goals

• Community currencies: Open source platforms for local economic cycles

Connection to Gradido:

• Open source Gradido softwareTransparent, community-owned implementation

• Local nodesCommunities operate their own Gradido servers

• Adaptability: Code can be modified for Congolese requirements

• TrainingTech hubs as multipliers for Gradido developers

4.5 Digital inclusion: women and girls in the tech sector

Challenges:

• Education gapOnly 16.8% women with a secondary school leaving certificate

• STEM access: Severely restricted for girls

• Cultural barriers: Traditional gender roles

• Financial barriersCosts for equipment, training

Potential and initiatives:

Regional role models (Africa-wide):

• She Code Africa: Women Developers Network

• African Girls Can Code: UN Initiative for Girls in Tech

• Women in Tech AfricaCommunity and mentoring

Approaches for DR Congo:

• Tech hubs for women: Protected learning spaces in SilikinVillage

• Girls' coding clubs: In schools and community centers

• Female mentors: Role models from successful tech women

• Scholarships: Targeted support for STEM education

• Mobile learning platformsAccess even in rural areas

TRANSFORME Project (World Bank 2025):

• 300 million USD for women entrepreneurs

• 23,531 Women trained in entrepreneurship in 5 cities

• Inclusion75 women with hearing impairments integrated by sign language translators

• The futureExtension to women with limited mobility

Vision: Women and girls as Co-Creators of the DR Congo's digital future, not just as users.

5. regional economic cycles, community currencies & gradido potential

5.1 Existing local economic practices

Informal economy:

• Dominance60-80% of economic activity in the informal sector

• Women: Main players (market trade, agriculture, services)

• Barter trade: Still widespread, especially in rural areas

• Mutual lendingInformal systems without banks

Tontines (rotating savings and credit model):

• Definition ofGroup saves regularly, someone receives the total amount in turn

• Distribution: Especially among women, urban and rural areas

• FunctionAccess to capital without banks, social network

• Trust: Based on Ubuntu principles of mutual commitment

Cooperatives:

• Agricultural cooperativesJoint purchasing, marketing

• women's cooperativesProduction (textiles, food processing)

• Savings cooperativesCommunity-based financial services

Mobile money as a game changer:

• 29 million active users (30.5% population), growth +14% per quarter

• M-Pesa, Airtel Money, Orange Money: Main provider

• FunctionsP2P transfers, bill payments, savings, microcredits

• Impact: Financial inclusion for the unbanked population

• East DRC22.5% of all national subscriptions despite conflicts

Challenges Mobile Money:

• LiquidityAgents often do not have enough cash (especially USD)

• Fees: In crises up to 20% withdrawal fees

• Exchange rates: Unfair rates through agent monopolies

• Goma crisisBanks closed for 4+ months (June 2025), mobile money as a lifeline but also exploitation

Microfinance:

• Distribution: Various MFIs operate, especially in cities

• Target groupWomen, small traders, farmers

• Challenges: High interest rates, limited range

5.2 Experience with alternative currencies

Dual currency USD/CDF:

• Factual parallel systemUSD for larger transactions, CDF for everyday transactions

• InstabilityCDF devaluation drives dollarization

• Black market: Usurious exchange rates in times of crisis (Goma 2025)

Community currencies/local compensation systems: Concrete documented examples are rare in the research, but:

• Informal credit tokens: „Promissory bills“ used in markets“

• Working time exchange: Especially in rural communities

• Economy in kind: Direct product-for-product swaps

Lessons from regional examples:

• Kenya M-Pesa: Shows acceptance of digital means of payment

• Time banks worldwide: Time-based barter systems work in similar contexts

• Bangla pesa (Kenya)Community currency for the local economy

5.3 Gradido model: basic principles and relevance

What is Gradido? Gradido stands for Gratitude (gratitude), Tuegnity (dignity), Donation (donation).

Core model - triple money creation: For each person, monthly 3,000 Gradido (GDD) scooped:

1. 1,000 GDD: Active basic income (unconditional participation)

   • Everyone contributes their inclinations/skills to the community (max. 50 hours/month)

   • Tax-free, in addition to other income

   • Children, senior citizens and the sick receive unconditional

   • Hourly wage: 20 GDD = maximum 1,000 GDD /month

2. 1,000 GDD: Tax-free state budget

   • Finances public infrastructure, health, education

   • No taxes, compulsory insurance or duties required

   • Size corresponds to German national budget incl. social services

3. 1,000 GDD: Compensation and Environment Fund (AUF)

   • Remediation of economic and ecological contaminated sites

   • Environmental remediation, recultivation, climate protection

Economic bionics - Natural principles:

• Becoming and passing away50% Transience per year (calculated continuously)

• Circulation: Prevents accumulation and the compound interest effect

• Life optimization: How nature has been successful for 4.5 billion years

• Triple benefitIndividual - Community - Big picture (ecosystem)

No debt money:

• No money creation through debt (like fiat currencies)

• No interest: Eliminates exponential debt growth

• No inflation due to compound interest

• Stable money supply through the balance of creation and transience (self-regulating system)

5.4 Why Gradido for DR Congo?

Cultural fit - Ubuntu meets Gradido:

Economic arguments:

• Poverty75% under USD 2.15/day → Active basic income of 1,000 GDD creates livelihood security

• Unemployment: Youth in particular → Active basic income creates meaningful employment

• Corruption: Non-transparent cash flows → Open source blockchain implementation creates transparency

• Debts: Public debt → Debt-free money creation

• Commodity curse: Wealth flows out → Local value creation through community currency

Social arguments:

• Fragmentation: Ethnic conflicts → Common economic basis creates unity

• Gender gap: Women economically marginalized → Active basic income recognizes care work

• YouthLack of prospects → Participation through own contributions

• Education: School fees as a barrier → Tax-free state budget finances free education

• Health: No health insurance → Tax-free state budget finances healthcare system

Ecological arguments:

• Deforestation500,000 ha/year lost → Compensation and environmental fund for afforestation

• Climate change: DR Congo highly vulnerable → AUF for nature conservation

• Mining: Environmental destruction → AUF for recultivation

• Biodiversity: Congo Basin as the lungs of Africa → Remuneration for ecosystem services

5.5 Bottom-up implementation: How could Gradido be introduced in practice?

Phase 1: Community pilot projects (6-12 months)

Suitable entry points:

• women's cooperatives: Existing tontine groups as first adopters

• Tech hubsSilikinVillage as an innovation laboratory

• Parishes: Trustworthy social infrastructure

• Peaceful regionsKinshasa, Lubumbashi (not initial conflict areas)

• Educational institutionsUniversities, vocational schools as learning spaces

Start scenario women's cooperative:

1. Pilot group30-50 women from the existing Tontine circle

2. Gradido accountsMobile app or SMS-based (low-tech)

3. Creation: Each participant generates 1,000 GDD/month through community work

   • Examples: Tending a community garden, teaching children, caring for the sick, looking after a market stall

4. ExchangeGDD for products/services within the Group

5. State budget equivalent1,000 GDD for Group (e.g. shared infrastructure, tools)

6. UP1,000 GDD for environmental project (e.g. tree planting, composting)

7. EvaluationMonthly meetings, adjustments, documentation

Start scenario Tech-Hub:

1. Developer community: 100 programmers in SilikinVillage

2. Open source implementationJoint further development of the Gradido software

3. Peer validationDevelopers draw GDD for code contributions, reviews, mentoring

4. Internal economyCanteen, co-working spaces accept GDD

5. Education: Coding workshops for young people → Apprenticeship remunerated with GDD

6. ExpansionSuccessful software as the basis for further communities

Phase 2: Regional expansion (1-3 years)

Multiplier strategy:

• Successful pilotsDocumentation as best practices

• Train-the-trainer: Pilot participants train new communities

• Mobile teams: „Gradido ambassadors“ travel to regions

• Media: Local radios, community TV report on successes

• Associations: Cooperative umbrella organizations integrate Gradido

Network effect:

• Inter-community tradeGDD interchangeable between pilot regions

• Production chains: Farmer → Processor → Dealer in GDD

• Regional marketsGradido markets„ where GDD is preferably accepted

• ServicesEducation, health, crafts in GDD

Phase 3: Institutionalization (3-5 years)

Legal recognition:

• Complementary currencyGDD as legal tender alongside CDF/USD

• Tax treatmentGDD transactions tax-free

• RegulationCentral Gradido Bank (decentralized organization)

Public institutions:

• Schools: Teachers receive part of their salary in GDD

• Health: Clinics accept GDD for basic care

• Administration: Local fees in GDD affordable

Private sector:

• The companyDiscounts for GDD payments (as in the Gradido model)

• WagesShare payable in GDD

• Supply chains: Local production promoted in GDD

Phase 4: National integration (5-10 years)

Vision 2035 (inspired by „Vision 2035: How Gradido transformed Africa“):

• DR Congo: Pioneer for Gradido in Central Africa

• Regional cooperationIntegration with neighboring countries (EAC, SADC)

• African Union: „Kinshasa Declaration“ on economic sovereignty

• Global reachDR Congo as a model for post-conflict transformation

5.6 Role of Gen Z and women in gradido implementation

Gen Z as digital natives:

• App development: Young programmers develop Gradido apps

• Social Media: Viral distribution of success stories

• Peer education: Young people train their peers

• InnovationNew use cases (gaming, art, music with GDD)

• governance: Youth parliaments for gradido rules

Women as change agents:

• Tontines → Gradido groupsUse existing trust structures

• Care work: Economically recognized and remunerated for the first time

• Cooperatives: Gradido companies run by women

• Education: Mothers teach community, earn GDD

• Leadership: Women overrepresented in Gradido governance (target: 50%+)

Intergenerational dialog:

• Elders: Convey Ubuntu values, ensure cultural anchoring

• Middle generation: Practical implementation, economic integration

• YouthTechnical innovation, global networking

• ChildrenGrow up with Gradido, internalize new normality

Inspiring vision: A young Congolese woman programs the Gradido app, while her mother founds the first cooperative and her grandmother, as the eldest, anchors the Ubuntu principles in Gradido governance.

6. education, empowerment and community building

6.1 Status quo education

Structural challenges:

• School fees: Despite official free education, families de facto pay

• Teacher salaries: Often not paid for months, leads to strikes

• Infrastructure: Overcrowded classes, lack of schools, no materials

• Gender gapGirls particularly disadvantaged (16.8% secondary school leaving certificate)

• Conflict areas: 1.6 million children without access to school in the East

Positive initiatives:

• Churches/NGOsCarrying a large part of the education system

• Community schools: Self-organized education in neighbourhoods

• Mobile schools: For internally displaced persons in camps

• Radio educationTeaching via radio for remote areas

6.2 STEM and vocational training

Girls in STEM:

• BarriersCultural norms, lack of role models, early marriages, costs

• PotentialsHigh interest if access is given

Vocational training:

• Formal vocational schools: Few, often poorly equipped

• Informal teaching: Traditional craftsmanship remains important

• Tech trainingCoding schools in SilikinVillage, other hubs

• Women's programsTRANSFORME (23,531 women), Women Empowerment Program (62 women in Kindu)

6.3 Community building and peer learning

Successful models:

• Study CirclesSelf-organized learning groups

• Peer mentoring: Older pupils teach younger ones

• Community LibrariesLibraries in churches, community centers

• Skill sharingAdult education in neighborhoods

Gradido integration:

• Active basic income for teaching: Peer teachers earn GDD

• Free education: Tax-free state budget finances schools

• Lifelong learning: Anyone can teach and learn, GDD earns

• Recognition of informal education: Traditional knowledge of equal value

6.4 Inspiring examples

Example 1: Women Empowerment Program Kindu (CMS-Africa, May 2025)

• 62 Women trained in business/financial management

• Duration: 5 days intensive training

• LocationBeroya Bible College, Maniema Region

• MethodChurch-based, savings group formation

• Impact: Women discover life goals, improve family finances

• The futureCooperative planned within 5 years

• Original sound„I have discovered the centrality of God in wealth creation and how I can reduce family expenses“

Example 2: TRANSFORME Project (World Bank, 2025)

• 300 million USD for women entrepreneurs

• 23,531 Women trained in 5 cities

• FocusPersonal Initiative, Entrepreneurship

• Inclusion75 women with hearing impairments through sign language translators

• VisitAlbert Zeufack (World Bank Division Director) emphasized the importance of

• The futureExpansion to all provinces, more women with disabilities

Example 3: Beans4Women (North/South Kivu, Tanganyika)

• 2 million direct beneficiaries (60% women/girls)

• Focus: Bean value chain + gender equality

• MethodsWomen-owned businesses, cooperatives, land rights

• Addition: Climate resilient technologies, nutrition education

• Impact: Increased income, increased decision-making power

7. synergies: Gradido, Open Source, Ubuntu & Transformation

7.1 Philosophical coherence

Triple well | Ubuntu | Open Source:

Shared values:

• Cooperation instead of competition

• Sharing instead of hoarding

• Transparency instead of secrecy

• Sustainability instead of exploitation

• Inclusion instead of exclusion

• Local control instead of external dependency

7.2 Practical merging

Scenario: Ubuntu cooperative with open source Gradido

CommunityWomen's cooperative in Lubumbashi (50 members)

Ubuntu practices:

• Weekly meetings, joint decisions

• Elders as mediators

• Mutual childcare

• Shared harvest from community garden

• Tontine as an economy model

Gradido integration:

• Each woman raises 1,000 GDD/month for community work

• Internal transactions in GDD (products, services)

• 1,000 GDD Cooperative budget for shared infrastructure

• 1,000 GDD for environmental project (tree planting, composting)

Open source tools:

• Gradido app: Locally hosted server

• Transparency: All transactions can be viewed by members (privacy-preserving)

• governance: Community decides on code changes

• Training: Young members learn programming, customize app

• ConnectionAPI to other cooperatives for cross-regional trade (Cross Community Transactions already work)

Result:

• Economic resilienceIndependent of CDF/USD fluctuations

• Social cohesion: Ubuntu values technologically supported

• Self-determinationOwn infrastructure, no external dependency

• ScalingModel available as open source for other cooperatives

• EducationTechnology transfer, competence building

7.3 Peace potential

Gradido as peace infrastructure:

Economic peace:

• Resource conflicts: Active basic income reduces the fight for scarce jobs

• Corruption: Transparent money creation eliminates rent-seeking

• Exploitation: Local value creation instead of resource theft

Social peace:

• Ethnic division: Common economic basis creates unity

• Generational conflictsActive basic income for all age groups

• Gender conflictsEqual economic participation

Ecological peace:

• Man-NatureAUF remunerates ecosystem services, reduces deforestation

• Climate justiceDR Congo honored as a natural beauty zone

• Sustainable agriculture: Agroecological practices promoted with GDD

Political peace:

• Bottom-up legitimacyCommunities shape their own economy

• Reduced dependency: Less attack surface for external manipulation

• Decentralized power: Non-centralizable structure prevents capture

Historical parallels:

• Wörgl (Austria, 1932): Free money reduced unemployment by 25%, conflict potential decreased

• Chiemgauer (Germany): Regional currency strengthens local economy, social ties

7.4 Role of the open source movement

Tech community as a catalyst:

• DevelopmentGradido software as an open source project

• Customization: Localization for Congolese languages, needs

• ScalingShared infrastructure (blockchain, server)

• EducationHackathons, coding schools for Gradido development

• governanceDecentralized decision making about protocol changes

Global networking:

• African developersDR Congo part of pan-African open source community

• Knowledge TransferBest practices from other contexts (Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda)

• Funding: Open source grants for Gradido implementation

• Visibility: International conferences, GitHub presence

Technical roadmap:

1. MVP (exists)Basic app for Gradido creation and transactions

2. Pilot (6-12 months)Deployment in first communities, feedback integration

3. Scale (1-3 years)Multi-community network, inter-operability

4. Maturity (3-5 years): Robust, feature-rich, self-sustaining

8. pilot projects, multipliers and broadcasting

8.1 Specific pilot regions and sectors

Criteria for pilot selection:

• PeacefulNo active conflicts (avoids risks)

• OrganizedExisting community structures (cooperatives, churches)

• Digitally accessibleMobile network coverage available

• Motivated: Community shows interest in change

• Multipliable: Success can inspire and be replicated

Proposed pilot cake:

1. Kinshasa - Tech-Hub-Pilot (SilikinVillage)

• Target group: 100 developers, start-ups, tech enthusiasts

• Focus: Open Source Gradido development

• Method: Developers draw GDD for code contributions, internal ecosystem

• Duration: 6 months

• Success MetricsFunctioning software, 100% participant engagement, documented best practices

2. Kindu (Maniema) - Women's cooperative pilot

• Target group3 existing women's groups (30-50 members each)

• FocusEconomic empowerment, Ubuntu Gradido integration

• MethodTontines → Gradido groups, production/trade in GDD

• PartnerCMS-Africa (already has women empowerment programs there)

• Duration: 12 months

• Success MetricsIncreased income, strengthened cooperatives, gender empowerment

3. Lubumbashi (Haut-Katanga) - educational pilot

• Target group2-3 schools in disadvantaged neighborhoods

• FocusActive basic income for peer teachers, free education

• Method: Upper school students teach younger, earn GDD

• PartnerLocal educational NGOs, church schools

• Duration: 12 months

• Success MetricsImproved learning outcomes, reduced dropout rates, model documented

4. Maluku (near Kinshasa) - health pilot

• Target groupCommunity Health Center

• Focus: Tax-free healthcare system, care work remunerated

• Method: Nurses/Community Health Workers earn part in GDD

• Partner„Hilfe für Menschen im Kongo e.V.“ (runs Centre Hospitalier there)

• Duration: 12 months

• Success Metrics: Increased utilization, improved health indicators

5th Gembu (Tshopo) - agroecology pilot

• Target group200 smallholder families

• FocusAUF for sustainable agriculture, agroforestry

• Method: Farmers receive GDD for tree planting, composting, organic farming

• PartnerPSFD program (AFD/FONAREDD already supports)

• Duration18-24 months (due to agricultural cycles)

• Success MetricsReduced deforestation, increased soil fertility, income

8.2 Multipliers and networks

Institutional partners:

Government:

• Ministry for Digital EconomyAugustin Kibassa Maliba (drives digitization)

• National REDD+ Fund (FONAREDD): Environmental financing

• Provincial governmentsInitial in pilot provinces

Civil society:

• ChurchesCatholic Church, Protestant associations (largest social network)

• NGOsmedica mondiale (women's rights), CMS-Africa (empowerment), World Concern (development)

• Women's associationsMothers‘ Union, national women's cooperative associations

Private sector:

• Mobile Network OperatorsVodacom, Orange, Airtel (for Mobile Money Integration)

• SilikinVillage ManagementTEXAF, World Bank (for Tech Hub Pilot)

• Local companiesSupermarkets, markets for GDD acceptance

Academic world:

• University of Kinshasa: Research on Gradido-Impact

• University of Lubumbashi: Agricultural sciences for eco-pilot

• Tech academiesCoding schools for developer training

International organizations:

• World BankTRANSFORME Project Synergies

• UNDPClimate adaptation, development

• UN WomenGender empowerment

• USAID: Climate resilience, Agriculture

Media:

• Community radios: Local languages, high reach

• Social MediaFacebook, WhatsApp, TikTok for young people

• National media: Actualité.cd, others for visibility

Multiplication strategy:

Phase 1: Documentation (parallel to pilots)

• Video testimonialsParticipants report in their own words

• Data CollectionQuantitative metrics (income, transactions, satisfaction)

• Case Studies: Detailed descriptions of each pilot

• Best PracticesWhat works, what doesn't, why

• Open Source: All materials freely available (GitHub, Wikis)

Phase 2: Training (after 6-12 months)

• Train-the-trainer: Pilot participants become end of school

• Mobile AcademiesGradido ambassadors tour the regions

• Online courses: Videos, webinars for broad reach

• WorkshopsHands-on in interested communities

Phase 3: Replication (after 12-24 months)

• Satellite Communities: New pilots based on proven model

• Network effectInter-community trade in GDD

• Media campaignsNational visibility

• Policy AdvocacyLobbying for legal recognition

8.3 From DR Congo to Africa and globally

Regional appeal:

Neighboring countries (context similarity):

• RwandaDespite conflicts, similar challenges (post-genocide, Ubuntu)

• Uganda: Similar demographic dynamics, M-Pesa penetration

• BurundiConflict context, need for peace infrastructure

• Zambia/Tanzania: Copper belt, similar raw material challenges

• Central African RepublicExtremely fragile, could learn from DR Congo model

Pan-African dimension:

Inspiration from „Vision 2035: How Gradido transformed Africa“:

• 2026Cooperation Gradido Academy with African women's tech networks (She Code Africa, Women in Tech Africa)

• 2028First African countries (Ghana, Rwanda, Tanzania) enact laws to promote Gradido as a complementary currency

• 2029: „Addis Ababa Declaration on Economic Sovereignty“ of the African Union → Pan-African impulse for Gradido

• 2029-2031Comprehensive implementation, rollout in more countries, integration with AfCFTA

• 2032-2035: Continent-wide transformation, women in tech/community leadership

DR Congo as a pioneer:

• Size100 million people → Scaling evidence

• Raw materials: Energy transition minerals → economic relevance

• Conflict context: If Gradido works here, it works everywhere

• Cultural depth: Ubuntu traditions as an authentic basis

• YouthGen Z as a pan-African movement

Global appeal:

Post-conflict contexts:

• Afghanistan, Syria, YemenPeace infrastructure based on the DR Congo model

• Myanmar, SudanSimilar challenges (resources, conflicts, youth)

Developing countries:

• Latin AmericaArgentina, Venezuela (currency crises) → Complementary currency

• AsiaBangladesh, Nepal (Gen Z Protests 2025) → Bottom-up model

industrialized countries:

• InequalityGradido as a supplement in marginalized communities

• Climate crisisAUF model for ecological compensation

• Care work: Recognition of unpaid work

Narrative:

„If economic transformation for peace and prosperity can work in the conflict-torn, resource-rich but poor Democratic Republic of Congo - where 75% live in poverty, millions are displaced and corruption is rampant - then it is possible everywhere. DR Congo proves it: Bottom-up, community-driven, with Ubuntu values and open source technology, Gradido can change the world.“

8.4 Success factors and risks

Success factors:

• Cultural anchoringUbuntu as an authentic base, not imported

• Youth energyGen Z as a driving force, digitally competent

• Women's leadershipEmpowerment as the core, not afterthought

• Open SourceTransparency, local control, technological sovereignty

• Gradual rolloutPilots → Learn → Customize → Scale

• Multi-stakeholderGovernment, civil society, private sector, communities

• International supportBut not dominance

Risks and mitigation:

Risk 1: Political instability / conflict escalation

• MitigationStart in peaceful regions, flexible adaptation, humanitarian principles

Risk 2: Corruption / Elite Capture

• MitigationOpen source transparency, community control, decentralized governance

Risk 3: Technology barriers (connectivity, digital literacy)

• MitigationLow-tech fallbacks (SMS), intensive training, peer support

Risk 4: Cultural rejection / mistrust

• MitigationCo-creation with communities, Ubuntu framing, local champions

Risk 5: Regulatory blockade

• Mitigation: Bottom-up fact-finding, then policy advocacy, international legitimacy

Risk 6: Scaling challenges (too fast / too slow)

• MitigationData-based decisions, adaptive management, patience

Risk 7: External sabotage (commodity interests)

• MitigationInternational attention, civil society vigilance, resilient networks

Critical condition for success: Ownership must remain with Congolese communities. Gradido is a tool, not a solution from the outside. Ubuntu is the soul, Gradido is the form.

9. data, visualizations and voices

9.1 Quantitative key indicators

Demographics:

• Total population: >100 million (2024)

• Share <15 years: 46%

• Median age: <20 years

• Urbanization rate: ~45% (rapidly increasing)

• Life expectancy: 55-60 years

Economy:

• GDP growth: 5% (2025, forecast)

• Poverty rate: 75% (<2.15 USD/day)

• Agriculture: 40% GDP, 70% employment

• Youth unemployment: Very high (no exact figure, but structural)

Digitization:

• Internet penetration: 19% (2024)

• Mobile subscribers: 30+ million

• Mobile Money users: 29 million (30.5%)

• Mobile Money growth: +14% per quarter

Education:

• Children without access to school (East): 1.6 million

• Women with secondary education: 16.8%

• Closed schools (North/South Kivu): 2,500

Health:

• Infant mortality rate: 99.39‰

• Malnutrition: 33% of the population

• Rapes (Jan-Sept 2025): 80,000 documented

Conflict:

• Internally displaced persons: 6.5 million (including 2.6 million children)

• Humanitarian aid needed: 21 million people

• M23 income: ~1 million USD/month from mineral taxation

9.2 Qualitative insights - sound bites

Gen Z protest movement (Goma, letter to mayor, January 2026):

„This civic duty obliges us to organize a peaceful march through the city of Goma... We demand: Denunciation of the violation of Congolese territorial integrity by the Rwandan army, immediate and effective withdrawal of M23 troops, exposure of war crimes and international justice.“

Woman from Women Empowerment Program (Kindu, May 2025):

„Through this training, I discovered my purpose in life and the centrality of God in wealth creation. I also discovered how to reduce my family expenses and make savings for family investments.“

Farmer from PSFD project (Tshopo province):

„Through my participation in the PSFD, I get high-quality cocoa seedlings that I couldn't afford before. Thanks to the productive alliance between farmers and processing companies, I can also grow maize without endangering the forest.“

Jean Francois Basse (UNICEF, on the education crisis, Feb 2025):

„This is a desperate situation for children. Education - and the support structures it provides - are essential for children to maintain a sense of normality, recover and rebuild after this conflict.“

SilikinVillage founder Jean-Philippe Waterschoot:

„SilikinVillage embodies a bold vision of economic development based on digital innovation. It fits perfectly into the framework of the National Digital Plan - Horizon 2025.“

Minister Kibassa Maliba (on National Digital Plan 2026-2030):

„It's about capturing the dividends of digital transformation and positioning our country - rich in critical minerals essential for digital and energy transitions - as an investment catalyst and solution provider for global challenges.“

Ubuntu research (AJHSSR Journal, 2021):

„Ubuntu is a normative philosophy of how people should treat each other. It is collectivist in orientation - expressing the value of collaboration, cooperation and community. It embodies an ethic of care and respect for others and the importance of solidarity in the face of adversity.“

9.3 Inspiring stories

Story 1: The programmer from Kinshasa Marie (24) studied computer science but couldn't find a job. She learned about the Gradido vision at SilikinVillage. She started working on the open source implementation, initially unpaid. As the project grew, she became the lead developer. Today, she trains other young women in coding and says: „Gradido not only gave me an income, but a mission: I am building the infrastructure for the liberation of my people.“

Story 2: The cooperative in Kindu A group of 40 women had been running a tontine for years. When they heard about the Gradido pilot, they were skeptical: „Another foreign project?“ But the organizers emphasized Ubuntu values. The women gave it a try. After 6 months, they had not only doubled their income, but also planted a community garden (financed by the AUF). The chairwoman says: „Gradido is like Tontine, but with transparency and justice. Every woman sees that she counts.“

Story 3: The Gen Z activist from Goma Jean-Paul (22) had lost three friends during the protests in January 2026. He was angry and disillusioned. Then he heard about Gradido as a „peace currency“. He organized a meeting with other activists. They decided: „We're not just fighting against something, we're fighting for something.“ They founded the first Gradido community in Goma, despite closed banks and insecurity. Today, Jean-Paul says: „Gradido is our answer to war and corruption: we are building the economy we deserve.“

10. strategic recommendations for action

10.1 For the Gradido Academy

Short-term (0-6 months):

1. Contact usWith SilikinVillage Management, CMS-Africa, Women in Tech Africa

2. Feasibility studyDetailed analysis of the 5 proposed pilot sites

3. Partner workshopIn Kinshasa with stakeholders (government, civil society, tech community)

4. Open Source Kickoff: GitHub repo for DRC Gradido implementation, invite global developers

5. MaterialsUbuntu Gradido brochures in French, Lingala, Swahili, Kikongo

Medium-term (6-18 months):

1. Pilot launchStart with 2-3 pilots (tech hub, women's cooperative, education)

2. Train-the-trainerTrain 50 Congolese Gradido ambassadors

3. ResearchPartnership with the University of Kinshasa for impact measurement

4. FundraisingEUR 500,000-1 million to secure scaling

5. Media: Documentary film about pilots, social media campaign

Long-term (18+ months):

1. Scaling50+ communities, 50,000+ users

2. Policy AdvocacyLobbying for legal recognition as a complementary currency

3. Regional expansionReplication in neighboring countries (Rwanda, Uganda, Zambia)

4. AU commitmentPreparation of the „Kinshasa Declaration“ on economic sovereignty

5. Global role modelDR Congo model as a case study for post-conflict transformation

10.2 For Congolese stakeholders

Government (National & Provincial):

• EnablingLegal recognition of Gradido as a complementary currency

• IntegrationInclude Gradido in the National Digital Plan 2026-2030

• Pilot funding: Financial/logistical support for pilots

• Anti-corruption: Blockchain transparency as a standard for public funds

Civil society (NGOs, churches, associations):

• ParticipationActive participation in pilots as an implementation partner

• Mobilization: Inform communities about Gradido, arouse interest

• Quality assuranceEnsure that Ubuntu values and gender equality are upheld

• Advocacy: Public pressure for pro-Gradido policies

Tech community (SilikinVillage, developer):

• Development: Developing and maintaining open source Gradido software

• InnovationLocal customizations (e.g. SMS-based, offline mode)

• TrainingCoding workshops for Gradido developers

• Connection: To the global open source community

Women's organizations:

• Leadership: Women overrepresented in Gradido governance (50%+ target)

• CooperativesTransformation of existing tontines to gradido groups

• Mentoring: Successful women train others

• Visibility: Communicating women's success stories prominently

Youth / Gen Z:

• MobilizationGradido as part of the protest movement for a fairer future

• Tech skillsLearn coding, app development for Gradido

• Peer education: Inform peers about Gradido

• governance: Establish youth parliaments for gradido rules

10.3 For the international community

Development organizations (World Bank, UNDP, GIZ, USAID):

• FinancingGrants for Gradido pilots as an innovative way to combat poverty

• IntegrationGradido in existing programs (TRANSFORME, PSFD, Climate Resilience)

• ExpertiseTechnical support, impact evaluation

• AdvocacyLegitimacy through UN/World Bank support

Tech philanthropy (Gates Foundation, Omidyar Network, Schmidt Futures):

• Seed FundingUSD 5-10 million for scaling after successful pilots

• Tech supportCloud infrastructure, security, scaling expertise

• Network: Connection to other Tech4Good initiatives

Science:

• ResearchLongitudinal studies on gradido impact (income, health, education, peace)

• PublicationsPeer-reviewed papers for evidence base

• ConferencesGradido-DRC as a case at development economics conferences

Media:

• ReportingFair, differentiated presentation (not „naive utopia“ or „technocratic solution“)

• Documentations: Long-term series about transformation

• PlatformsTED Talks, podcasts for global reach

10.4 Critical reflection

Which Gradido is NOT:

• No panaceaGradido does not automatically solve conflicts, corruption, inequality

• No replacementFor political reforms, rule of law, investment in education

• Not a top-down projectMust be supported by communities, not imposed on them

What Gradido CAN BE:

• Infrastructure for peace: Economic basis for cooperation instead of conflict

• Tool for empowerment: Especially women, youth, marginalized people

• Bridge: Between traditional Ubuntu values and modern technology

• CatalystFor bottom-up transformation, if implemented correctly

Modesty and ambition: This dossier presents an ambitious vision. Success is not guaranteed. But the DR Congo is at a crossroads: continuation of the status quo (poverty, conflict, exploitation) or a bold experiment for a fairer future. Gradido offers a path - but only if Congolese communities want to take it and international partners support it respectfully.

11 Summary and outlook

Key findings

The Democratic Republic of Congo faces immense challenges, but also has extraordinary potential for bottom-up transformation:

Challenges:

• Extreme poverty (75%), humanitarian crisis (21 million people)

• Ongoing conflicts in the east (6.5 million displaced persons)

• Corruption (rank 169/180), weak institutions

• Education deficits, health crisis, gender inequality

• Deforestation, climate vulnerability

Potentials:

• Young population46% under 14, mobilizable Gen Z

• Ubuntu culture: Deep-rooted solidarity, community orientation

• Digitization: 29 million mobile money users, growing tech scene

• Women as changemakersCooperatives, empowerment initiatives, resilience

• National digitization strategy1.5 billion USD investment by 2030

• Wealth of raw materials: If managed fairly, basis for prosperity

Gradido as a transformation tool:

• Cultural coherence: Triple happiness ≈ Ubuntu ≈ Open Source Commons

• Economic justice: Active basic income combats poverty

• Technological sovereigntyOpen source avoids new dependencies

• Peace infrastructureCommon economic basis reduces conflicts

• Ecological compensationAUF compensates for environmental protection, stops deforestation

• Bottom-up legitimacyCommunities shape their own economy

Vision 2035

If Gradido is successfully implemented in the DR Congo:

• 10 million people actively use Gradido (10% of the population)

• 50% of the user are women, many in leadership roles

• 5,000 cooperatives base their business activities on gradido

• Schools/clinics in 100+ communities financed by tax-free state budget

• 1 million hectares Reforested by AUF, CO2 sink honored

• Conflicts reduced in the east by economic alternatives to mineral theft

• Corruption made more difficult by blockchain transparency

• DR Congo Recognized as a role model for post-conflict transformation

• „Kinshasa Declaration“ from AU to economic sovereignty

• Regional replication in 10+ African countries

Narrative:

„In 2035, the world looks to the Democratic Republic of Congo as proof that sustainable transformation is possible - even in the most challenging contexts. By combining centuries-old Ubuntu wisdom with cutting-edge open source technology and the innovative Gradido model, Congolese communities have shown that it is possible: Peace, prosperity and ecological harmony are not a utopia, but an achievable reality when people are empowered to shape their own future.“

Next steps

For immediate action:

1. ContactGradido Academy → SilikinVillage, CMS-Africa, Women in Tech Africa

2. WorkshopStakeholder meeting in Kinshasa (virtual or on-site)

3. Open SourceGradido-DRC Start GitHub repo, invite community

4. Pilot planningDetailed feasibility study for 5 proposed pilot sites

5. FundraisingPitch deck for development organizations and tech philanthropy

For continuous progress:

• Documentation: This dossier as a living document, regular updates

• CommunityGradido-DRC Slack/Discord for interested parties and implementers

• ResearchPartnership with Congolese/international universities

• MediaRegular reporting on progress and challenges

• LearningOpenness for adjustments based on feedback and results

12 Sources and further reading

Central sources

Gradido model:

• Gradido.netMain website, concept papers, roadmap

• „Natural economy of life“ - Gradido book

• Vision 2035: How Gradido transformed Africa (Gradido Research)

DR Congo - Current situation:

• Federal Foreign Office Germany: Political portrait DR Congo

• World Bank: DRC Economic Update, TRANSFORME Project

• UN OCHA: Humanitarian Response Plan DRC

• medica mondiale: Gender-based Violence Reports

• AJHSSR Journal: „Ubuntu Philosophy and its Significance for D.R. Congo“

Digitization & Innovation:

• National Digital Plan 2026-2030 (Ministry for the Digital Economy)

• SilikinVillage: Inaugural Reports

• Mobile Money Feasibility Study (RDC analysis, Q4 2024)

• USAID: Climate Change Country Profile DRC

Gen Z & protest movements:

• XTRAfrica Media: Goma Youth Gen Z March Reports

• CNN: „Gen Z taking digital dissent offline“ (2025)

• EU SEE Network: „Gen Z Movements and the Future of Protest“ (2025)

Women's empowerment:

• CMS-Africa: Women Empowerment Program Reports

• World Concern: „Empowering Women in DRC“ (2025)

• Beans4Women Project Profiles

Ubuntu philosophy:

• African Journal of Social Work: „Ubuntu and Philosophy of Community“

• Ubuntu Philosophy Research (Scribd, AJHSSR)

Further reading

Complementary currencies & community economy:

• Silvio Gesell: „The natural economic order“

• Bernard Lietaer: „The money of the future“

• Kennedy, Lietaer: „Regional currencies“

Ubuntu & African Philosophy:

• Desmond Tutu: „No Future Without Forgiveness“

• Mogobe Ramose: „African Philosophy through Ubuntu“

Open Source & Commons:

• Elinor Ostrom: „Governing the Commons“

• Yochai Benkler: „The Wealth of Networks“

Post-conflict transformation:

• Paul Collier: „The Bottom Billion“

• Ashraf Ghani, Clare Lockhart: „Fixing Failed States“

Digital inclusion Africa:

• AfDB: „Digital Financial Services in Africa“

• GSMA: „State of Mobile Money in Sub-Saharan Africa“

Appendix: Contacts and resources

Institutional contacts

DR Congo - Government:

• Ministry of Digital Economy: Augustin Kibassa Maliba

• National REDD+ Fund (FONAREDD)

Tech hubs:

• SilikinVillage Kinshasa: www.silikinvillage.cd

• Kinshasa Digital: Community platforms

Civil society:

• medica mondiale (DRC Office)

• CMS-Africa (Kindu Women Empowerment)

• World Concern (DRC Program)

• Help for people in Congo (Maluku)

International organizations:

• World Bank DRC: TRANSFORME Project Team

• UNDP DRC: Climate Resilience Program

• USAID DRC: Development Programs

Research:

• Université de Kinshasa: Faculty of Economics/Computer Science

• Université de Lubumbashi: Agricultural Sciences

Gradido network

• Gradido Academy: academy@gradido.net

• Gradido Community: community.gradido.net

• GitHub (for open source): [To create: gradido-drc]

Pan-African tech networks

• She Code Africa: shecodeafrica.org

• Women in Tech Africa: womenintech.africa

• African Girls Can Code (ITU/UN Women)

This dossier has been compiled with the utmost care on the basis of current research (February 2026). It serves as a basis for discussion and a source of inspiration for all those working towards a more just, peaceful and sustainable future for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the world.

For queries, additions and cooperation possibilities:
Gradido Academy - (www.gradido.net

Let's shape the transformation together - from the bottom up, with Ubuntu in our hearts and open source in our hands.

End of the dossier