Stories

Banza fled the conflict in DR Congo to Zambia and found a new beginning through hairdressing
March 8, 2025 News

Banza fled the conflict in DR Congo to Zambia and found a new beginning through hairdressing

Fleeing from conflict and starting anew in a foreign land is never easy. For Banza, a 33-year-old refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo, life took an unexpected turn when war forced her to leave behind everything she knew. Arriving in Zambia ten years ago, she hoped for stability, but new challenges awaited her. Thanks to the support from Caritas Czech Republic, Banza was able to turn her passion for hairdressing into a flourishing business.

I knew that if we did not escape, we would die, says Elody from Zambia, who started a new life with the help of Caritas Czech Republic
March 6, 2025 Humanitární pomoc a rozvojová spolupráce Charity ČR

I knew that if we did not escape, we would die, says Elody from Zambia, who started a new life with the help of Caritas Czech Republic

Only 19 years old, Elody comes from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where difficult life circumstances led her all the way to Zambia. Together with her sister, she was kidnapped by rebels who kept them in brutal conditions until they managed to escape. Today, in the Meheba refugee settlement, she runs her own small shop, takes care of her son, and inspires other women in her community. Her story shows that there is hope for a better life. Caritas Czech Republic played a part in helping her find that hope. 

6 things you may not know about refugees
March 5, 2025 Humanitární pomoc a rozvojová spolupráce Charity ČR

6 things you may not know about refugees

The number of people forced to leave their homes has more than doubled in the last decade. There are over 122 million forcibly displaced people worldwide, marking the highest single year increase recorded. The war in Ukraine has caused one of the largest and fastest population movements since the Second World War and has contributed significantly to this record number. Here are some more important facts about refugees.

Behind the scenes of Caritas Czech Republic: Meet the team behind the DAFI Scholarship Programme
February 17, 2025 News

Behind the scenes of Caritas Czech Republic: Meet the team behind the DAFI Scholarship Programme

For young refugees, education is more than a pursuit—it’s a chance to rebuild their future and contribute to society. Yet, financial barriers and adapting to a new academic system make higher education a challenge. The DAFI Scholarship Programme opens doors for refugee students in Zambia, turning aspirations into reality. Behind its success is a dedicated team providing guidance, mentorship, and support. We spoke to Credwin and Kateule from Caritas Czech Republic about their work and the impact of education on refugee scholars.

I love my job, says Jerome from Zambia, who lives with a visual impairment
January 16, 2025 Humanitární pomoc a rozvojová spolupráce Charity ČR

I love my job, says Jerome from Zambia, who lives with a visual impairment

76-year-old Jerome from Zambia has been coping with the effects of glaucoma, which robbed him of his sight, for the past 13 years. Despite this, he has not lost his zest for life or determination. Today, he works as a trustee of a food processing centre in the Meheba refugee settlement, where his attitude inspires others to live life to the fullest despite obstacles. The centre, which helps people secure their livelihoods, operates with the support of Caritas Czech Republic