The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, has kept her promise to pay tribute to the women who have marked the history of the country. As part of her “Congo au feminine” project, the first volume of the book entitled “Legends of the Congo” was presented at a ceremony at the African Union (AU) site. This 161-page book highlights the exceptional achievements of Congolese women who have left their mark.
Among the women presented in this first volume, we find figures such as Marie-Antoinette Mobutu, the duo Angebi and Kanzaku, Micheline Sasa, Elisabeth Mweya Tol’Ande, Françoise De Meyer, Catherine Nzuzi wa Mbombo, Friederike Liyolo and Marie-Eugénie Mpongo. Through writings and images, the book recounts their inspiring journeys and their contributions to the history of the DRC.
During the presentation ceremony, the First Lady expressed her gratitude to these exceptional women for their impact in the country. She also reaffirmed her commitment to promoting young Congolese girls and women. She stressed that this book and future volumes to come are an invitation to discover and celebrate the women who have shaped the history of the DRC.
The Prime Minister, Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, as well as other members of the government were present during this symbolic ceremony. The book was handed over to the Head of Government, who then handed it over to the Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage, Catherine Kathungu Furaha.
The objective of this book is not only to pay tribute to these women, but also to make them known to the general public. In accordance with the will of the First Lady, the book will not be sold, but will be widely distributed in order to share the story and the achievements of these too often overlooked women.
The “Congo au femme” project was launched by Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi in October 2020. Its ambition is to tell the story of Congolese women who have helped shape the country over the past 60 years, through books and documentaries. .
This initiative is an important step towards the recognition and enhancement of the role of women in the history of the DRC. It testifies to the commitment of the First Lady to promote the place of women in Congolese society and to encourage young girls to pursue their dreams without limits.
This first volume of the book “Legends of the Congo” is a showcase of the extraordinary achievements of these women and constitutes a source of inspiration for present and future generations. It recalls the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women in all areas of society