The Kivu Project

Background

The Kivu Project, established in 2022 by Dan Torsiello and Jackie Jaramillo, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to improving educational infrastructure and opportunities for children in the North and South Kivu Provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The organization's mission is to alleviate childhood poverty by addressing inadequate or nonexistent infrastructure and creating sustainable funding within the DRC to ensure self-reliant projects.

Key Strategic Focus

The Kivu Project focuses on constructing and supporting educational and orphanage facilities in the DRC. Their initial project involved building a six-classroom primary school in Mushaki, North Kivu, equipped with essential amenities such as toilets, administrative offices, rainwater collection and storage, solar power, desks, computers, printers, and school supplies. The organization aims to create opportunities for children to reach their potential by earning an education through primary school, aiding them in gaining admission to secondary schools.

Financials and Funding

As a non-profit organization, The Kivu Project relies on fundraising efforts to finance its initiatives. The construction of the Mushaki primary school was completed at a cost of $42,000 USD. The organization continues to raise funds for future projects, including the construction and support of an orphanage in Mushaki.

Pipeline Development

Following the successful completion of the Mushaki primary school, The Kivu Project is planning to build and support an orphanage in Mushaki. The proposed facility will accommodate 150 orphans and include a small medical facility, a kindergarten, a trade school, an internet-connected classroom, and a restaurant to be run by local widows. The estimated cost for this project is approximately $200,000.

Leadership Team

Dan Torsiello: Co-founder and Board Chair. Dan is a high school world and African history teacher, varsity basketball coach, and Rutgers alumnus. He is a passionate traveler and has been instrumental in initiating and leading the organization's projects.

Jackie Jaramillo: Co-founder and Board Member. Jackie works in digital media, is a Seton Hall alumnus with a background in graphic design, and is an avid traveler. She has played a key role in fundraising and organizational development.

Janet Torsiello: Board Member.

Robert Knowles: Board Member.

Tyler Goodwin: Board Member.

Frank Jaramillo: Board Member.

Leadership Changes

As of January 23, 2023, the board of directors includes the members listed above. There have been no recent significant changes or appointments within the company's leadership.

Competitor Profile

The Kivu Project operates in a unique niche focused on educational and orphanage infrastructure development in the DRC. While there are other non-profit organizations working in similar sectors, The Kivu Project's direct competitors are limited due to its specific regional focus and project scope.

Market Insights and Dynamics

The DRC has a population of approximately 66.5 million people, with a GDP of $19.03 billion and a real growth rate of 7%. The country faces significant challenges, including a 29.5% illiteracy rate and limited access to education, particularly in rural areas. These factors create a pressing need for educational infrastructure development, presenting opportunities for organizations like The Kivu Project to make a meaningful impact.

Competitor Analysis

While there are other non-profit organizations operating in the DRC, The Kivu Project's specific focus on building and supporting educational and orphanage facilities in the North and South Kivu Provinces sets it apart. The organization's hands-on approach, collaboration with local partners, and commitment to sustainable development contribute to its unique position in the sector.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The Kivu Project collaborates with local partners to execute its initiatives effectively. Notably, the organization has partnered with Christian Aganze of Congo Local Guides, a socially-conscious travel company based in Goma. Christian serves as the point of contact in the DRC and has been instrumental in leading the construction of the Mushaki primary school.

Operational Insights

The Kivu Project's strategic considerations include addressing the pressing need for educational infrastructure in the DRC, particularly in the North and South Kivu Provinces. By focusing on building and supporting schools and orphanages, the organization aims to provide children with access to quality education and a safe environment, thereby contributing to the alleviation of childhood poverty in the region.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, The Kivu Project plans to expand its impact by constructing and supporting an orphanage in Mushaki, as well as exploring additional projects that benefit the lives of children in the North and South Kivu Provinces. The organization's commitment to sustainable development and collaboration with local partners positions it well to achieve these objectives.