Title: Women of North Kivu on a mission for electoral participation and peace
Introduction :
In the province of North Kivu, a group of ambitious women, gathered within the Synergie de femmes du Grand-Nord, undertook an advocacy mission in Kinshasa. Their objective ? Promote the participation of women in the electoral process and work for the return of peace in their region. This delegation, led by Patience Sinamuli, focal point of the Collective of Women’s Associations for Development (CAFED), wishes to highlight the rights and skills of women in the Congolese political landscape.
A fight for representativeness and equality:
At the heart of their approach, the women of North Kivu denounce the often figural treatment of women on the electoral lists. They demand the active and equitable participation of women in the electoral process. Patience Sinamuli insists that women deserve to be truly supported by their male counterparts to make their voices heard. She also points out that some women have not had the opportunity to be registered to vote, and this constitutes a deprivation of their fundamental right to political participation.
Peace, a prerequisite for elections:
Beyond electoral participation, the women of North Kivu believe that the pacification of the country is an essential condition for fair and transparent elections. Patience Sinamuli expresses the wish that the whole of Congo be ready and able to organize elections in a climate of peace. She recalls that some regions of the country are still experiencing unrest and violence, thus preventing many citizens, women and men, from being able to exercise their right to vote.
Conclusion :
The North Kivu women’s advocacy mission for electoral participation and peace demonstrates their determination to assert their rights and actively contribute to the construction of a more egalitarian and peaceful society. Their fight for equitable political representation and lasting peace is a real call to action for the whole of Congolese society. Let’s hope that their voices are heard and that concrete measures are taken to promote the participation of women and guarantee the safety of all in the upcoming elections in the DRC