Democratic Republic of Congo appeal - Yuma Levis' story

Yuma Levis travels on a regular basis from Kasongo to a village 45 km away, where he buys cassava, rice or corn before cycling back to sell them in the local market. He is one of many small traders who have benefited from the rehabilitation of Musukuyi Bridge by Concern Worldwide.

Before the bridge was repaired, the only way people could cross the river in the rainy season was using a large plank of wood pulled from one side of the river to the other by rope. Though dangerous, it didn't stop people queuing for three hours to be transported across, or from paying money to those running this makeshift ferry.

As a result, it cut into the tiny profits of those like Yuma, who earn their living by going from village to village to trade. So before, Yuma would only travel a few times per month but now, thanks to the bridge, he makes the journey 10 to 15 times. After years, he finally has an income to support himself and his family again.

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