The Dina Center destroyed by fire
On Thursday afternoon, a devastating fire broke out in the main building at the Dina Center in Goma, in the Democratic Repubplic of Congo. Recsuers evacuated fifty-six girls, but they have lost everything.
By Per Gunnar Økland
The center, which since 2004 has served as a home and haven for girls who have survived sexual violence, now lies in ruins. The city of Goma is now the site of an active armed conflict, and the security situation is critically unstable.
In ruins
“This is more than a building. It is a symbol of hope, survival, and dignity,” says Rune Edvardsen, Executive Director of the Dina Foundation and founder of the center.
The main building at the Dina Center—where the girls both live and receive their education—has been destroyed. The fire was still burning when local staff documented the damage on their mobile phones. All residents survived, but they are now without shelter, clothing, school materials, or basic belongings.
“The girls have lost everything they own. We have no insurance. We are starting from zero,” Edvardsen says.
A center for survivors
The Dina Center was established after Rune Edvardsen, in 2003, met a two-year-old girl subjected to sexual abuse during the civil war in eastern Congo. That encounter marked the beginning of a mission that has since helped hundreds of girls through medical treatment, psychological support, education, and—most importantly—safety.
The center is operated by the Norwegian organisation, Dina Foundation, in close cooperation with local partners in the Democratic Republic of Congo. For more than 20 years, the foundation has worked to help girls rebuild their lives after violence.
Security situation deteriorates
Goma is currently under military control of the armed rebel group M23, which earlier this year took over large parts of the city following intense fighting with government forces. In May, reports emerged of gunfire near the Dina Center.
The conflict forced the girls to take cover on the floor inside the building to avoid stray bullets.
The situation remains unstable. Water and electricity supplies are down, and many humanitarian organisations have withdrawn. In the midst of this unrest, the girls at the Dina Center—who have already endured severe trauma—have now also lost their only home.
“Without a safe place to live, these girls are at risk of becoming victims once again,” Edvardsen warns.
Emergency fundraising launched
The Dina Foundation has launched an emergency appeal to raise funds for food, shelter, and essential supplies.
The longer-term goal is to raise sufficient funds to rebuild the main building and restore operations.
UPDATE: The emergency fundraising campaign was successful and raised sufficient funding to complete reconstruction of the center.
