Founded by students, rooted in Minembwe
Ten years serving Banyamulenge youth and families in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Our beginning
CHACHU was founded in 2016 by young Banyamulenge university students who believed their generation could be leaven for change—quietly powerful, steadily transformative.
What started as a student-led initiative has grown into a diaspora-supported nonprofit with two active programs: education in Minembwe and the Chachu Youth Community Fellowship.
What Chachu means
In Swahili, chachu means leaven. One committed young person—or one caring donor—can influence many and transform a community.
Our motto
A Wealthy and Healthy Community is our north star. Today that vision is pursued through education—school fees for 40+ children—and CYCF, our youth fellowship program.
What we do today
CHACHU runs two ongoing programs:
- Education — school fees for children in Minembwe when families cannot afford them
- CYCF — Chachu Youth Community Fellowship for fellowship, mentorship, and servant leadership
Our journey
Over the years CHACHU has responded to community needs in different ways. Today we focus on education and youth fellowship, but our history reflects a deep commitment to Minembwe.
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2016
Founded by students
Young Banyamulenge university students launch CHACHU with a vision of leaven-like community transformation.
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We Feed
Farming & food security Paused
CHACHU leased land, provided seeds, and paid for farming labor so families could grow food and improve harvests. Paused to focus resources on education.
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Week at Home
Diaspora homecoming Paused
Iyinga I Muhira—two successful diaspora trips brought volunteers home to serve alongside local communities. Travel paused due to regional insecurity.
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2024
Kubwegera humanitarian response
Hygiene supplies for displaced Banyamulenge families at Kubwegera IDP camps.
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Today
Education & CYCF
School fees for 40+ children and the Chachu Youth Community Fellowship for the next generation of leaders.