In the past decades, we have made great progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis. Now that the COVID-19 pandemic forces us to develop new strategies in combatting viruses, we should not allow this pandemic to weaken our fight against other epidemics, such as HIV and TB. In fact, the massive and unprecedented response to COVID-19 should help our battle against other viral diseases around the globe.

Women are more vulnerable to acquire HIV and TB, but also to the persistent social stigma associated with these diseases. This book tells the stories of resilient and powerful women who deal with major challenges. Not only are they capable of overcoming their own adversity; many of them also support and inspire other women.

All people* in this book take part in our HIV/AIDS and TB programme in Kinshasa, one of the many locations in the Democratic Republic of Congo where we work. In 2020, we tested more than 4 million people for HIV and nearly 200,000 people throughout the country received ARV treatment.

Our achievements are significant contributions to combatting HIV/AIDS and TB in the DRC. But together we can do more. With your support, Cordaid can make more impact where it matters most. Your collaboration enables us to implement more activities contributing to a brighter future for adolescent girls and young women in the DRC.

Join us to make a difference.

Sylvain Duhau

Country Director Cordaid - Democratic Republic of Congo

*The names of most people in this book have been changed for privacy reasons.