Title: Gender-based violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo: an alarming situation in the provinces of North and South Kivu
Introduction :
The situation of gender-based violence (GBV) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains worrying, as revealed in a report recently published by YARH-DRC and Repro Justice Congo. This report notes a significant increase in cases of GBV in the provinces of North and South Kivu during the first three months of 2023. This situation highlights the need for urgent intervention to combat this violence and protect women and girls in the region.
Alarming figures:
According to the report, reports of GBV in North Kivu increased by 37% compared to the same period the previous year. These figures demonstrate the seriousness of the situation and the urgency to act. Women and girls in the region face daily violence, including rape and sexual assault, perpetrated by armed men and members of their own community. These acts of violence have devastating consequences on the lives of victims, causing profound physical and psychological trauma.
Awareness and prevention actions:
Faced with this alarming situation, awareness and prevention actions have been undertaken. Campaigns were launched on social networks, in displaced persons camps and in universities, in order to raise awareness among the population about gender-based violence and to promote women’s autonomy, access to reproductive health care, violence prevention and sex education for young girls. These initiatives aim to inform and empower the population, emphasizing the importance of respecting the rights of women and girls.
Poignant testimonies:
The report also highlights the poignant testimony of women living in displaced persons camps, who are particularly exposed to violence. A woman displaced by war confides: “In this camp, sometimes, in order for my children to eat, there are those who offer me a few pennies in exchange for some fun. Constrained, I sometimes accept. Not to mention the cases of rapes that happen here every day, mostly by armed men.” These testimonies show the urgency of action to protect vulnerable women and girls.
Conclusion :
The situation of gender-based violence in the provinces of North and South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo is alarming. The figures demonstrate the scale of this scourge and the need for urgent intervention. Awareness and prevention actions undertaken are essential to inform the population and promote respect for the rights of women and girls.. It is imperative that the Congolese authorities and the international community join forces to end this violence and provide better protection to women and girls in the region.