Missionwork of the 4 Pillars in the Democratic Republic of Congo
The reports are in accordance with the agreed format established by the Congolese Evangelical Church, CECA-20. For the first six months of each calendar year, the reports focus on providing a detailed account of the activities carried out within the 4 Pillars project. In contrast, the reports for the second six months also include an assessment of the extent to which the project’s indicators have been achieved.
On an annual basis, we submit our reports to Christian Professionals International, the German Christian organization that has been supporting us since November 15, 2020. They have been covering our insurance, a portion of the flight costs, and providing us with a monthly allowance. The report follows the same format we use for the CECA-20 report.
The current project period is set to conclude on December 31, 2023. Following that, the DV project will continue from Atzo, which is approximately 150 km northeast of Lanza, and situated close to the Ugandan border. As we transition to this new location, the objectives and methods of the project will be adapted to suit the specific environment. By the end of September 2023, we will provide comprehensive updates regarding the project’s continuation and the adjustments made for the new setting.
January – June 2023, by Roelof van Til
Goals 2021 – 2023 | The project aims to contribute sustainably to improved food supply and increased income for vulnerable farming families in the northeastern region of Congo. |
Expected Results | Participating families cultivate their crops following the 4 Pillars method. The sustainability and resilience of agricultural production in the region are improved while preserving the environment. The techniques of the 4 Pillars are integrated into higher agricultural education and government extension services. |
Indicators | For Expected Result 1: 1a. 1000 farming families practice no-till farming for their crops. 1b. 1000 farming families apply proper techniques to maintain the quality of their seeds. For Expected Result 2: 2a. 1000 farming families leave all crop residues in the fields instead of burning them. 2b. 1000 farming families use cover crops (green manure). 2c. 1000 farming families practice crop rotation on the same fields each season, instead of clearing and burning new areas of forest or savanna. For Expected Result 3: 3a. The 4 Pillars method becomes part of the curriculum in the agricultural college of CECA-20 in Rethy and the Shalom University in Bunia. 3b. In at least one province, the 4 Pillars method is included in the extension program of the Ministry of Agriculture. |
Goals 2021 – 2023:
The project aims to contribute sustainably to improved food supply and increased income for vulnerable farming families in the northeastern region of Congo. By implementing the education provided by the 4 Pillars project, vulnerable families are able to establish and maintain relatively large fields, leading to increased yields per hectare. The combined effect is a significant improvement in both food supply and income.
Expected Results:
- Participating families cultivate their crops following the 4 Pillars method.
1a. 1000 farming families practice no-till farming. Over the past semester, the number of families adopting no-till farming has steadily increased, possibly exceeding 1,500. The exact number is not yet known since most of the increase occurs outside our field of view, in a spontaneous and quiet manner.
1b. 1000 farming families apply good techniques to maintain the quality of their seeds. Maintaining the quality of maize seeds requires expertise that is not easily transferred. It is likely that fewer than 200 families apply the correct techniques, considering the timing of actions: just before pollen release, right after the first cob ripens, etc. Maintaining the quality of soybean seeds is less demanding. Removing the most diseased plants in the fields and winnowing the poorest seeds after harvest are basic techniques that most families learn easily. The majority of the 300 families who received soybean seeds are successfully maintaining the seed quality. The same applies to cowpea seeds distributed to approximately 500 families through the project. However, the availability and multiplication of good-quality seeds remain a point of concern, even after 2023.
2. The sustainability and resilience of agricultural production in the region have improved, and the environment is conserved.
2a. 1000 farming families leave all crop residues in the fields instead of burning them. Most participating families now leave crop residues without burning them. This is remarkable because burning them saves time. However, it is evident that they are willing to invest in soil fertility. With no more plowing, they have extra energy and time, which they dedicate to improving soil quality.
2b. 1000 farming families use cover crops (green manure). Many families still find it challenging to apply cover crops, which remains the most difficult aspect of the 4 Pillars program. However, the number of families requesting cover crop seeds is gradually increasing. On the other hand, some families receive cover crop seeds but never sow them. There are a few families that produce and distribute cover crop seeds to acquaintances and friends. Overall, approximately 350 families are practicing cover cropping.
2c. 1000 farming families use the same fields season after season instead of clearing and burning new areas of forest or savanna. On the demonstration fields, continuous cultivation has been carried out for eight seasons, resulting in at least double the average yields compared to traditional farming methods. Successful 4 Pillars participants share the same experience: by applying the 4 Pillars method, fields can be sustainably cultivated. More people are becoming aware of this advantage. They can build a future close to home without having to constantly move in search of new land.
3. The techniques of the 4 Pillars are being taught in higher agricultural education and government extension services.
3a. The 4 Pillars method is now part of the curriculum at the higher agricultural school of CECA-20 in Rethy and Shalom University in Bunia. During the past semester, no visit was made to Shalom University. However, regular contact with agricultural professors through WhatsApp keeps us informed about their activities and focuses on the practical fields of the university. The 4 Pillars techniques are now considered fundamental and standard and are being taught. Additionally, there are some specializations, such as intensive banana cultivation and modern fish farming, which fall outside the core 4 Pillars program. However, it is interesting and educational to follow their progress in agriculture.
A comprehensive visit was made to Rethy, where three days of classes were taught at the higher agricultural school, the Institut Supérieur Pédagogique et Technique (ISPT). The classes were designed for both teachers and students, totaling 35 people. The lessons were a continuation of earlier teachings on integrated soil fertilization. Most participants struggled with the numerous calculations required for the subject, mainly due to their inadequate foundational education. Efforts are made to keep the course content and exercises as simple as possible. The level is likely comparable to secondary education in the Netherlands. In Rethy, most of the 4 Pillars techniques are now being applied on the practice fields.
3b. In at least one province, the 4 Pillars method is part of the agricultural extension program of the Ministry of Agriculture. As previously mentioned, in both provinces where the 4 Pillars program is implemented, there has been little success in integrating the 4 Pillars method into government policies. In fact, there is hardly any agricultural policy from the provincial government. However, there are now at least two members of the Ituri provincial cabinet who apply and promote the key techniques of the 4 Pillars program. The vice-governor is also a fervent supporter, both in words and actions.
The map below provides estimates of the number of families that fully or partially adopt the 4 Pillars method as of June 30, 2023. The total is approximately 1,600 families. The numbers in blue represent the families that joined during the past semester.
The map shows the distribution of the participating families in different areas of the province, indicating the growth and spread of the 4 Pillars method over time.

Activities in 2022 within the 4 Pillars project:
a. Establishing five centers for demonstrating the 4 Pillars method and conducting research. Expected results 1 and 2.
Five out of the six centers described in the previous report are functioning well. The sixth center in Mungbere is poorly managed due to personal circumstances of its owner. These centers continue to be effective as places for research, demonstration, and education.
b. Training local trainers in the 4 Pillars method. Expected results 1 and 2.
Training of local trainers took place outside of Lanza. Instead of focusing on new trainers, efforts were made to deepen and consolidate the capacities of existing trainers. Providing decentralized training allows trainers to be taught in their own environment, making the lessons more relevant to their daily practices. Moreover, neighbors and interested parties from further away can benefit from the training simultaneously.
Continuous learning and improvement are essential aspects of the 4 Pillars program. Most research is conducted on the central fields in Lanza, but discoveries and lessons learned are also shared from the other centers.
Efforts are made to keep all lessons and insights as simple as possible. Some trainers tend to present themselves as true educators, teaching fellow farmers an unnecessarily complex set of measures. However, most trainers now understand that good education is simple and focused on core issues.
d. Training and guiding farming families by the local trainers. Expected results 1 and 2.
The number of trainers who effectively apply the 4 Pillars method is gradually increasing. The line between trainer and experienced farmer is blurring, as many farming families who have gained experience in the 4 Pillars method offer guidance and training to their neighbors and visitors of their own accord. This spontaneous sharing of knowledge has reduced the demand for formal trainers. The focus now is on maintaining a group of competent top trainers who ensure the quality of education throughout the 4 Pillars region and promptly correct any mistakes.
e. Writing brochures and other educational materials. Expected results 1 and 2.
All existing brochures on the 4 Pillars, in both French and Lingala, have been revised. Most paragraphs have been slightly shortened and adjusted based on insights gained over time.
f. Identifying, purchasing, and testing new varieties and crops. Expected result 1.
The previously mentioned soybean variety has been replanted. If the yield is as good as the previous season, it can be cautiously concluded that the variety can be grown twice a year. The harvest from the previous season was largely distributed to interested parties.
A new variety of cooking banana has been introduced. This type of banana is a staple food for large parts of the population in Uganda and is highly appreciated in Congo as well. The genetic variation of this banana type in Congo is limited, making it vulnerable to diseases and pests. Broadening the genetic variety can prevent future problems. This aspect is also explained to the top trainers in the comprehensive course manual “Integrated Seed Systems.”
g. Training and guiding individuals in relatively complex techniques for seed improvement. Expected result 1.
The number of farming families that not only maintain good-quality seeds but also gradually improve them is steadily increasing. However, there have been cases where initial progress was made, but later, a mistake resulted in the loss of all investments. Improving seed quality involves a series of measures that must be taken at precise times and correctly. For instance, in the case of improving maize seeds, one must timely and correctly remove diseased plants, remove male inflorescences, select the right number of good cobs, and dry them properly. A mistake in storage, such as not regularly checking for weevils, can lead to seed germination being affected, resulting in the loss of the entire stock. While the loss of good seeds from some individual families may not be a problem, it is essential to ensure that there are enough families that possess and can sell good seeds to others. By the end of the program in 2023, this is expected to be the case for maize, soybean, and banana crops. However, improving and maintaining quality seed (cuttings) for cassava might not be entirely successful due to the extensive transmission of certain virus diseases by mosquitoes. Efforts to address this issue will continue beyond 2023.
h. Introducing and multiplying green manure crop seeds. Expected result 2.
It is encouraging to witness a gradual increase in the number of families that are multiplying Mucuna and Mimosa seeds. Families that received cowpea seeds are also multiplying and replanting the crop. The population is gradually being convinced of the importance of green manure in agricultural development in Congo. People are realizing that relatively small investments in this domain yield good returns.
i. Raising awareness among the population about the necessity of protecting nature and the environment, through government officials and radio broadcasts. Expected results 1 and 2.
Through the evangelical radio broadcaster RTK, the 4 Pillars have been explained several times, emphasizing the benefits for nature and the environment. During the four and a half years of residence in Lanza, the population has visibly increased, resulting in increased pressure on forests and savannas. The district of Faradje, to which Lanza belongs, experiences population growth mainly due to migration from other districts, particularly from the district of Aru. Many families settle in Faradje as the land in Aru is depleted, and there are no fertile and freely exploitable areas left. While there seems to be sufficient land available in Faradje, people are beginning to realize that it won’t last forever. However, the majority of the population lives day to day without focusing on long-term issues. Positive feedback on radio broadcasts is occasionally received, primarily from the relatively intellectual segment of the population.
j. Writing and using educational material for higher agricultural education. Expected result 3.
The course manual “Integrated Seed Systems” is mostly written, and the goal is to have the entire manual ready for publication by the end of August. Afterwards, the manual will be introduced to the agricultural professors at Shalom University and the ISPT.
k. Presenting the results of the 4 Pillars to provincial ministries of agriculture and assisting in integrating the 4 Pillars method into their extension work. Expected result 3.
Provincial ministries of agriculture have been challenging to access and demonstrate interest in the 4 Pillars method. Nevertheless, we have achieved greater success with certain representatives in the provincial cabinet and the vice-governor, as they actively apply the 4 Pillars method on their large farms. It is likely that they share their experiences and promote the approach with their colleagues at the provincial level and during public engagements.
Integral activities: Evangelism and Bible teaching
Remke and I have expanded the VAV approach, which stands for Vivre Avec Vision (living with vision). We dedicate approximately an hour and a half to engage in conversations with families, young people, or single mothers, focusing on their goals for the next 5 or 10 years. For the majority of Christians among them, we inquire about ways they can become more effective and valuable as followers of Jesus. These discussions hold great significance, offering ample opportunities for personal testimonies, reconciliation between spouses, and renewed dedication to the Lord. For us, these interactions serve as a means of learning and orientation. While the VAV approach is not yet an integral part of the 4Pijler method, we acknowledge the constraints of time, expertise, and personnel that prevent its inclusion. However, we remain enthusiastic about growing in this social-pastoral work, as there is a substantial need for it. Naturally, we collaborate closely with church leaders in these endeavors.
Unfortunately, the Jesus film is still unavailable in the local Dhongoko language. Nevertheless, thanks to the generous donation from the Sefanja congregation, we have gathered funds for its large-scale screening. We have also facilitated training sessions for evangelists, and as soon as the film is ready, we can proceed with its outreach.
As for the prayer house, we are pleased to announce that it has been fully completed, including the installation of a lighting system. The prayer team from Lanza frequently gathers there for night vigils, fasting, and prayer. Whenever the 4Pijler program permits, Remke and I actively participate, often leading Bible study sessions. The value of prayer and its impact are becoming increasingly recognized in the region. People afflicted with illnesses, particularly those related to sin or unclean spirits, seek assistance at the prayer house. Prayer is diligently offered for their healing, often accompanied by confessions of sins and renouncing of sorcery. Witnessing how God answers the prayers of His children is truly uplifting and encouraging. The members of the prayer team consider it a natural part of their faith journey, understanding that God hears and heals, which, indeed, is only logical.
Finances
Budget line item: | Begroting 2021 – 2023 | Totaal uitgaven 2021 en 2022 | Begroting 2023 | Begroting semester 1, 2023 | Uitgaven semester 1, 2023 | Begroting semester 2, 2023 |
Administration & Communication | 6.290 | 4.740 | 1.550 | 775 | 859 | 691 |
2. Training Roelof & Remke | 4.834 | 3.434 | 1.400 | 700 | – | 1.400 |
3. Construction of Storage Space | 1.658 | 1.658 | – | – | – | – |
4. Security Costs | 3.368 | 2.468 | 900 | 450 | 429 | 471 |
5. Vehicle Expenses | 13.397 | 8.397 | 5.000 | 2.500 | 2.357 | 2.643 |
6. Visits to Uganda for Project Purchases | 7.035 | 3.835 | 3.200 | 1.600 | 1.719 | 1.481 |
7. Educational Activities: Travel and Accommodation | 2.761 | 1.561 | 1.200 | 600 | 596 | 604 |
8. Trainer Seminars Costs: Catering and Equipment | 6.401 | 4.401 | 2.000 | 1.000 | 985 | 1.015 |
9.CFI Mediation | 2.770 | 1.846 | 924 | 462 | 462 | 462 |
10. Training and Guidance for Target Groups | 36.332 | 25.753 | 10.579 | 5.290 | 5.426 | 5.153 |
11. Research and Demonstration | 13.983 | 10.202 | 3.781 | 1.891 | 1.933 | 1.848 |
12. Monitoring and Evaluation | 3.479 | 2.379 | 1.100 | 550 | 58 | 1.042 |
Total Budget | 102.311 | 31.634 | 15.817 | 16.810 | ||
Expenses per Period | 70.676 | 14.824 | ||||
Donations per Period | 14.544 | |||||
Starting Balance 2023 | 7.437 | |||||
Balance for the Period | -280 | |||||
Current Balance | 7.157 |
Finances, Explanation:
Donor Contributions: During the past semester, the project received a total of 14,544 euros from various donors. Most of these contributions came from regular donors, and there were also some unexpected one-time donations. The total income exceeded the budgeted amount, and we are very grateful for the generous support.
Period Balance: In this semester, the project expenses slightly exceeded the income. The balance for the period is -280 euros.
Current Balance: Due to the positive balance of 7,437 euros at the beginning of this year, the current balance is 7,437 – 280 = 7,157 euros, slightly higher than initially anticipated. Additionally, there is a reserve of 4,750 euros allocated for vehicle maintenance.
Budget for the 2nd Semester 2023: The budget for the second semester is set at 16,810 euros. Assuming donor contributions of 2,000 euros per month, we can close the year with a positive balance of (6 x 2,000) + 7,157 – 16,810 = 2,347 euros.