Title: Synergy of women of North Kivu on an advocacy mission in Kinshasa: for an equitable participation of women in the electoral process and the return of peace
Introduction :
As part of their commitment to the equitable participation of women in the electoral process and the return of peace to the North Kivu region, the Synergie des femmes ambitiouses du Grand-Nord undertook an advocacy mission in Kinshasa. This delegation, led by the Collective of Women’s Associations for Development (CAFED), seeks to raise awareness among the authorities and civil society on the importance of giving women a prominent place in the upcoming elections. In this article, we will explore the goals and claims of this synergy, as well as the challenges it faces.
The fight for equal participation of women in the electoral process:
According to Patience Sinamuli, focal point of CAFED, it is high time that women are accompanied and supported by men throughout the electoral process. She denounces the fact that too often, women are relegated to the role of extras on the electoral lists, without any real possibility of participating actively in the political life of their country. The Synergie des femmes du Nord-Kivu calls for women to be meaningfully represented in decision-making bodies and for their voices to be heard and taken into account.
The crucial link between peace and elections:
In addition to the issue of women’s representation, the Synergie des femmes ambitiouses du Grand-Nord highlights the importance of the return of peace to the North Kivu region before the elections are held. Patience Sinamuli underlines that many territories of the country are still in the grip of armed conflicts, which compromises the holding of free and fair elections. Thus, the advocacy of this delegation is closely linked to the search for a peaceful and lasting solution in the region, thus allowing all citizens, men and women, to be able to exercise their right to vote in a secure environment.
Challenges to overcome:
The advocacy mission of the Synergie des femmes ambitiouses du Grand-Nord faces several challenges. First, there is the cultural barrier that often limits women’s political participation in some communities. Then, there is the need to sensitize the authorities and civil society to the importance of a balanced representation of women in decision-making bodies. Finally, there is the challenge of security, with the still unstable situation in some regions hampering the establishment of a transparent and inclusive electoral process.
Conclusion :
The advocacy mission of the Synergie des femmes ambitiouses du Grand-Nord in Kinshasa is an important step in the fight for equitable participation of women in the electoral process and the return of peace in North Kivu. By focusing on these two essential issues, this delegation aims to create an environment conducive to the political participation of women and to guarantee free and fair elections for all Congolese citizens. It is crucial that the authorities and civil society take into account the demands of this synergy and work together for a more inclusive and peaceful future in the Democratic Republic of the Congo