Claudaline Muhindo is an inspiring woman of faith whose life has been devoted to serving some of the most vulnerable people in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Her ministry began with a simple yet powerful response to the needs she saw around her. In the streets of Goma, many young children were suffering from malnutrition, poor health and neglect. Driven by compassion, Claudaline started a feeding and nutrition programme, caring for children between the ages of two and ten. She provided food, washed their clothes and offered the practical care and love that many had never experienced.
What began as a small outreach soon grew into something much larger. Alongside her husband, Bishop Desire, Claudaline founded Hope School in 2006, creating a place where vulnerable children could receive an education, discover their potential and find hope for the future. Today, the school serves approximately 300 nursery, primary and secondary-aged students.
Claudaline's journey has not been without profound challenges. Following the death of her husband in 2020, she faced a difficult season of grief and loss. More recently, insecurity in the region and the activities of the M23 rebels forced her to leave Goma and relocate temporarily to northern Congo. Despite these disruptions, she has remained steadfast in her calling. Her eldest daughter, Sarah, now helps oversee the day-to-day running of the school, supported by the wider family, including Claudaline's daughter Marvelous and sons Glory and Jethro.
Beyond education, Claudaline is passionate about empowering women and strengthening families. Through two tailoring centres, women are taught practical skills that enable them to make and sell clothing, generating income to support their households. Many of these women are single mothers who have lost their husbands through war and conflict. She also helps women learn agricultural skills, encouraging them to grow vegetables and rear small livestock such as goats to improve food security and household income.
Reflecting on the loss of her husband, Claudaline speaks openly about the depth of her grief, but she also testifies to God's faithfulness through every season. She remains deeply grateful for the prayers, friendship and support she has received from World in Need and supporting churches.
Today, Claudaline continues to serve with remarkable resilience and faith. Through Hope School and its wider community programmes, she is helping to transform lives, offering children and families a future filled with opportunity, dignity and hope. For many boys living on the streets, the support and education she provides offer a positive alternative path and the chance to build a different future.
Claudaline's story is one of compassion, perseverance and unwavering trust in God—a powerful testimony to what can happen when one person responds faithfully to the needs around them.
Join us in supporting Claudaline and the life-changing initiatives she leads. Follow the link below to donate today. Support Hope School
