Tübingen, Germany – A fundraising campaign launched by the city of Tübingen has successfully reached its target of over €91,000 three days early, aimed at building a clinic for women affected by sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Set to continue through December 15, the initiative was part of a friendly wager led by Tübingen’s Mayor Boris Palmer, musician Dieter Thomas Kuhn, and Gisela Schneider, director of the German Institute for Medical Mission (Difäm).
Originally, the three stakeholders set out to collect €91,000, which translates to one euro per Tübingen resident. By Friday morning, the donations had surged to approximately €93,500, allowing the campaign to surpass its goal with several days still remaining. "Wenn wir das schaffen, dann sing ich da draußen auf dem Marktplatz ein paar Lieder," noted Dieter Thomas Kuhn, indicating his promise to perform should the goal be met.
The funds raised will go toward constructing the hospital, which aims to provide medical services to women suffering from fistulas, serious injuries typically resulting from sexual violence or childbirth complications. These women are often marginalized and stigmatized within their communities, and the new clinic is set to become a sanctuary for healing and recovery.
Dr. Claude Idring’i, a medical partner with Difäm, expressed gratitude for Tübingen’s contributions, stating, "Merci Tübingen. Mit der neuen Klinik können wir vielen Frauen nach sexualisierter Gewalt helfen, ihnen Hoffnung schenken und ihnen ihre Würde zurückgeben." His remarks highlight the dire need for medical support for women facing such atrocities.
The campaign kicked off on November 9, and the engagement from the Tübingen community has been overwhelming. Palmer, enthusiastic about the initiative, shared on several occasions how he believed residents could rally together to support such an important cause. "Ich bin beeindruckt, wie viele Menschen sich in und auch außerhalb Tübingens an der Aktion beteiligt haben. Gemeinsam haben wir Großes erreicht und Herz gezeigt," he stated, reflecting on the campaign's success at the Tübingen Christmas market.
Difäm has also placed collection boxes throughout Tübingen, including local bars, hotels, and schools, enabling residents and visitors alike to contribute. People were also able to donate online, making the campaign accessible to those outside the city. A virtual and physical fundraising meter located at the Tübingen town hall allowed citizens to monitor progress, generating excitement as the total approached the goal.
The success of the fundraiser ensures not only the construction of the clinic but also enhancements to the facility's infrastructure. A solar panel installation is planned for the roof, guaranteeing reliable access to electricity and water—critical components for any healthcare facility.
Additional fundraising efforts are expected to continue even after achieving the goal. The campaign organizers are committed to maximizing contributions for equipping the clinic and providing adequate medical care. For those wishing to donate, options remain available through the website at www.tuebingen-wettet.de.
Gisela Schneider took the opportunity to thank supporters, expressing her appreciation on behalf of everyone involved at Difäm and the local partners on December 14, noting how significant the contributions would be for healthcare capacity building in the DRC.
With the new clinic, numerous women will have access to necessary surgeries and rehabilitation services, giving them their dignity back and offering them hope for brighter futures. The situation for women and girls dealing with the traumatic aftermath of violence remains dire, especially within the conflict-ridden eastern regions of the Congo, where sexual violence is often perpetrated as part of the struggle for resources.
The Tübingen initiative exemplifies grassroots efforts to aid those suffering from societal neglect, showcasing the power of community engagement and compassion. Now, as the city celebrates its fundraising success, it also prepares to embrace the musical festivities promised by Kuhn, who will perform live on December 16 at the city's central marketplace at 5 PM.
Tübingen’s citizens have not only succeeded through charity but have also built connections of empathy and support, sending ripples of hope across continents and changing lives for many women facing horrific challenges.
