Andre tells his story
a place of hope and transformation shines brightly
This piece features the work of André Lutula, a Congolese refugee now residing in Kenya, at Kakuma refugee settlement. He teaches and supports community members in sustainable agriculture, permaculture and community development. He is also studying project management via on-line courses. His determination to support those around them comes through clearly in this narrative. André has been a regular attendee at the S39 permaculture forum, where he has also shared his vision for leadership around themes food security and self help within the refugee communities.
In the arid landscape of Kakuma Refugee Camp, amidst the countless tents and makeshift shelters, a place of hope and transformation shines brightly.
This beacon is the Social Action Center for Vulnerable Individuals (SACVI), a Community-Based Organization dedicated to supporting those in need. At the heart of SACVI is André Lutula, a 34-year-old Congolese national whose journey has been defined by resilience, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to uplifting others.
André's story began in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country rich in resources but fraught with conflict. Witnessing the struggles of his people ignited a desire in him to make a difference. This drive led him to Kakuma Refugee Camp, where he found not just a refuge, but a calling. Separated from his family since 2016 due to the turmoil in his homeland, André found solace and purpose in helping others who were also displaced and vulnerable.
André Lutula learned and finished his high school in pedagogy in the Democratic Republic of Congo, laying the foundation for his passion for teaching and community development. Despite the challenges of displacement, he remains steadfast in his commitment to personal growth and professional development. Currently, André is furthering his expertise in project management through online courses offered by Maryland University, leveraging platforms like Coursera to expand his skills. This dedication to continuous learning underscores his commitment to enhancing his effectiveness as a leader in humanitarian efforts.
In 2017, André founded SACVI with a vision to empower women and youth to become self-resilient and to reduce food insecurity through permaculture. As the Director of SACVI and a dedicated permaculture trainer, André has dedicated his life to addressing the multifaceted needs of the camp's most vulnerable residents. SACVI provides essential services such as emergency shelter, food assistance, legal aid, and mental health counseling. Under André's leadership, the organization takes a holistic approach, understanding that true empowerment comes from addressing both immediate needs and long-term challenges.
One of André's greatest strengths is his ability to build bridges within the community and beyond. He has forged strong partnerships with local NGOs, international aid organizations, and government agencies, significantly amplifying the impact of SACVI’s programs. SACVI collaborates with various organizations, such as Organization S39, to leverage resources, expertise, and networks, enhancing the effectiveness and reach of their initiatives. André's advocacy efforts have also led to important policy changes, enhancing protections and resources for refugees.
André's expertise in permaculture has become a cornerstone of SACVI’s efforts to promote sustainability and self-sufficiency. The organization’s vision is to empower women and youth to become self-resilient and to reduce food insecurity through permaculture. André trains community members in sustainable farming practices that not only provide food security but also restore and maintain the health of the ecosystem. These permaculture projects have transformed barren patches of land into thriving gardens, offering fresh produce and a sense of empowerment to those who tend them.
Teaching and bringing people together are not just part of André’s professional duties; they are his passions. Whether he is leading a permaculture workshop, organizing community meetings, or facilitating conflict resolution sessions, André's love for education and community-building shines through. His natural ability to connect with people and foster a sense of unity has been instrumental in creating a cohesive and supportive environment within Kakuma.
The impact of André's work is best seen in the lives he has touched. Take, for instance, Amina, a young woman who fled violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo and arrived at Kakuma with nothing. Through SACVI, she found not only a safe place to stay but also received vocational training and psychological support. Today, Amina is a skilled tailor, supporting herself and contributing to the camp's economy. Then there’s Hassan Nimeri, a former child soldier from South Sudan, who found solace and direction through SACVI’s mentorship programs. Hassan now works as a community mediator, helping to resolve conflicts and promote peace within the camp.
André's vision for SACVI extends beyond immediate relief. He is deeply committed to fostering long-term resilience and self-sufficiency among refugees. This commitment is evident in SACVI’s initiatives focused on education, skills training, and economic empowerment. Through his permaculture training, André believes that with the right support, refugees can not only rebuild their lives but also become powerful agents of change in their communities.
In Kakuma, André Lutula is a name synonymous with hope and determination. His tireless work has earned him respect and admiration, not just within the camp but also among the broader humanitarian community. Awards and recognitions from various organizations line the modest walls of SACVI, each a testament to the profound difference André and his team are making.
For André, the true measure of success lies in the transformed lives of those he serves. Every smile, every story of resilience, and every step towards self-sufficiency fuels his dedication. His journey is a powerful reminder that even in the most challenging circumstances, one person's compassion and commitment can ignite a wave of positive change.
Despite the personal hardship of being separated from his family since 2016, André Lutula’s story is one of unwavering dedication and hope. Through SACVI and his permaculture training, he continues to build a brighter future for the residents of Kakuma Refugee Camp, proving that with empathy and action, any challenge can be overcome.
Stay connected with André Lutula and SACVI:
- Email: andrelutula6@gmail.com
- Facebook: [Social Action Center for Vulnerable Individuals
https://www.facebook.com/SACVI
- Twitter: [@AndréLutula](Twitter_profile)
- Instagram: [@AndréLutula](Instagram_profile)
Feel free to reach out for inquiries, collaboration opportunities, or to stay updated on SACVI's work and initiatives!
If you are able to support Andre by small financial donation, please contact him directly. It is easy to send small amounts directly to people using the SendWave App
Life in the settlements can be precarious, with little or no safety net and many challenges. We hope that through this awarenesss raising we can create more support for key community leaders.
East Africa has phone based banking system and donation can reach individuals this way in real time.
“I find the notion of ecoliberation most compelling, clearly only by embracing the ecological reality of our relationship with mohter earth can we ever truly free ourselves” Steve Jones 2024
What an inspiration and in the face of such adversity. A beacon of hope, resilience and a shining example to the rest of us! Viva Andre!