Eben-Ezer University of Minembwe (UEMI) founded in Minembwe, South Kivu Province, DRC as the first university in the region
Who We Are
Inganji Roots is a community-led nonprofit born inside a crisis – not after the conflict.
Founded in Eastern DRC by survivors and for survivors, we walk alongside those most affected by war to rebuild their lives and reclaim their future. We work with widows, orphaned children, single mothers, inmates, and unemployed youth those left furthest behind by conflict, poverty, and trauma. Through locally rooted systems of healing, education, livelihood, and leadership, we are proving that people don’t have to wait for peace to begin restoring what was broken. We’re not preparing for recovery. We’re reinforcing resilience
Where We Work
Inganji Roots operates Inganji Roots operates in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, specifically in the Minembwe region of South Kivu and in Kinshasa.
Our Values
Our Values
Dignity
Every life has value. We create spaces where widows, youth,
and children and inmates are seen, heard, and equipped.
Resilience
We walk with communities through trauma, toward
healing and transformation.
Local Ownership
Real change lasts when it’s led from within.
Compassion
We serve not as saviors, but as companions.
Innovation
We adapt boldly, blending local wisdom and creative
solutions.
Prof. Lazare
Prof Lazare is an internationally recognized theologian, cultural critic, and peacebuilder whose work bridges postcolonial theology, African tradition, and community-based education. A Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow and founder of Eben-Ezer University of Minembwe in the Democratic Republic of Congo, he has advanced global conversations on justice, reconciliation, and the role of education in fragile societies.
His career embodies a rare balance of academic distinction and grassroots courage: he has lectured at Cornell University, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Penn State, and George Mason University, yet continues to live and serve in Minembwe — a conflict-affected and overlooked region. His story inspires not only as a scholar but as a leader who has chosen proximity over prestige.
Julie Mudasumbwa
Julie co-founded Inganji Roots with Prof. Dr. Lazare Sebitereko Rukundwa to carry forward the legacy of UEMI. She holds a Master’s in Food and Nutrition Policy from Tufts University and a Bachelor’s from Cornell University. When Prof. Lazare was unjustly imprisoned in 2023, she stepped forward to continue his vision of resilience, education, and community-led healing.
Previously Director of Development at UEMI, Julie is passionate about changing the systems that oppress a generation destined to thrive.
