The fight against sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at the center of the news. Karim Khan, prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC), went to Panzi hospital in South Kivu. The hospital’s medical director, Nobel Peace Prize winner Denis Mukwege, welcomed the prosecutor. On the walls, the messages are strong: “Let justice be done for child mothers and children born of sexual violence”.
Reparation rather than revenge is at the heart of the claims of the victims. While some are calling for the establishment of international arrest warrants against the sponsors, others are content with reintegration and rehabilitation measures.
At the same time, the delicate political situation of the country is highlighted. The repression of the opposition is growing and some deputies even refuse to take part in the plenaries which discuss bills. Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State, discussed with President Félix Tshisekedi the situation in eastern DRC where tensions are high.
Despite these difficulties, the DRC continues to make progress economically with the appointment of Pascaline Zamuda to the deputy general management of the Housing Fund (FONHAB). Investments and agreements have also been made with China to strengthen relations between the two countries.
Finally, the Games of La Francophonie are being prepared in Kinshasa, with the Tata Raphael Stadium being fitted out to host the various sports competitions.
The DRC is moving forward, but remains a country plagued by many social, economic and political challenges