Title: Dr Denis Mukwege in Congo-Brazzaville: a partnership to fight against sexual violence in the DRC
Introduction :
Dr. Denis Mukwege, Nobel Peace Prize 2018, continues his commitment to the fight against sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). After being received by US President Joe Biden at the White House, he made a diplomatic visit to Congo-Brazzaville on June 29, 2023. This visit gave rise to rich discussions between Dr. Mukwege and the Congolese President, Denis Sassou Nguesso, around a subject of particular concern for the region: sexual violence in eastern DRC.
A partnership to end sexual violence:
Sexual violence in the DRC is a tragic reality with devastating humanitarian consequences. Used as a tactic of war, they aim to humiliate the adversary and weaken the civilian population. Faced with this situation, Dr. Mukwege expressed his wish to see Congo-Brazzaville engage in a partnership strategy to fight against this violence. This collaboration would make it possible to put in place concrete actions aimed at protecting the victims, prosecuting the culprits and promoting gender equality.
Massive support for Dr. Mukwege’s candidacy:
This diplomatic visit comes a few months before the presidential election in the DRC, and Dr. Mukwege enjoys strong support from women’s organizations and the Congolese population. Her fight against sexual violence and her commitment to women’s rights have earned her international recognition and certain legitimacy. Many Congolese see in him a hope for change and justice for their country.
A call for regional solidarity:
The fight against sexual violence in the DRC cannot be led by an isolated country alone. Dr Mukwege stresses the importance of regional solidarity to end this tragedy. It calls on neighboring countries, regional organizations and the international community to mobilize and support initiatives to combat sexual violence in the DRC. This is a problem that transcends borders and requires a strong collective response.
Conclusion :
The diplomatic visit of Dr. Denis Mukwege to Congo-Brazzaville marks an important step in the fight against sexual violence in the DRC. His call for regional partnership and international mobilization reinforces the need for concerted action to end this tragedy. Dr. Mukwege’s presidential candidacy in the DRC enjoys massive support, testifying to the hope he embodies for real change. The fight against sexual violence in the DRC cannot be ignored, and this visit contributes to giving a voice to the victims and to working for a more just and egalitarian society