Ruben’s story is one example of recovery that is supported by the international humanitarian aid. He found work with an international NGO and supported the construction of thousands of shelters in his community. It was work he felt deeply connected to. 

“Those were my people. I knew their stories, and they trusted me. That made a big difference in how fast we could move.” 

Two years ago, that intervention came to an end. Ruben knew it was time to return to what he felt called to do: rebuild the agricultural legacy his father left behind and help his community stand on its own again. 

His partnership with ForAfrika began in October 2026, when he joined the Project Seeds for Sustainability started with financial support from ForAfrika affiliates in Germany and Switzerland. It focuses on an integrated approach: providing agricultural inputs and training, combined with the establishment of 15 VSLA groups and a nutrition component. Around 5,000 people are now part of these initiatives.

“I see what people don’t always see. Many are focused on the violence, the needs, the struggles. But we are surrounded by resilient people. People who know how to work this land. People who still dream of a better future. I am just an inspiration. it is proof that if you work hard, things can change.” 

Ruben has a clear vision for the groups he mentors. He wants to strengthen their capacity and remove the barriers they face. For him, training matters as much as mentorship.