The quest for lasting peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains a major challenge, particularly in the pre-electoral context. Ongoing instability in the country, particularly in the east, is fueled by the activism of armed groups, leading to human losses and the displacement of thousands of civilians. Faced with this situation, it is essential to examine the responsibilities of the different institutional components in peacebuilding.
In a program hosted by Jody Nkashama, we were able to hear the points of view of Marc Langelier, lieutenant-colonel of the MONUSCO force, Garry Sakata, national deputy, and Rosine Kokola, executive director of the NGO Young Women Christian Association (YWCA-DRC).
It is clear that to achieve lasting peace, all institutional components must take their responsibilities. MONUSCO, as a UN peacekeeping force, plays a crucial role in protecting civilians and fighting armed groups. However, it is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of this force and find ways to strengthen its action on the ground.
Political leaders, for their part, must actively engage in the political resolution of the root causes of conflicts. This involves promoting inclusive dialogue, listening to the demands of different stakeholders and implementing necessary reforms to promote social justice and equal opportunities. The upcoming elections also provide a unique opportunity to strengthen the legitimacy of democratic institutions and promote transparent and accountable governance.
Finally, civil society also plays a key role in peacebuilding. Organizations such as the YWCA-DRC are implementing initiatives to mentor young people, promote education and women’s empowerment, and combat hate speech and violent extremism. It is crucial to support and amplify these efforts in order to foster a culture of peace and tolerance in Congolese society.
In conclusion, lasting peace in the DRC requires the involvement and responsibility of all institutional components. MONUSCO, political leaders and civil society must work together to end the activism of armed groups, address the root causes of conflict and promote a culture of peace and justice. Only collective and coordinated commitment will make it possible to build a peaceful and prosperous future for the DRC and its population.