Declaration of Congolese writers: A voice for peace in the East of the DRC
Gathered in an extraordinary congress during their recent meeting at the Wallonia-Brussels library, Congolese writers addressed an essential and poignant theme: “Writing in times of crisis: Congolese literature and its societal impact”. This meeting made it possible to assess the role of writers in the fight for peace in the DRC, particularly in the eastern part of the country which experiences persistent insecurity.
In a unanimous statement, these guardians of the memory and culture of the Nation expressed their concern and indignation at the crisis plaguing the region, causing untold suffering and unacceptable human losses. Congolese writers have firmly condemned the acts of barbarity, violence and human rights violations perpetrated by enemy armed groups in eastern DRC.
Faced with this critical situation which has persisted for many years, Congolese writers have launched a strong appeal to the Congolese authorities and the international community. They urged the Congolese authorities to act with more determination to end this spiral of violence, while calling for increased support from the international community and regional partners.
In a solemn commitment, these writers pledged to use their pens as weapons to denounce atrocities and contribute to the construction of national unity and the culture of peace in the DRC. They stressed the importance of unity and national solidarity for a bright future for their country.
The situation in eastern DRC remains critical, with persistent insecurity and alarming levels of violence. Casualty figures continue to rise, and the civilian population, particularly women and children, are suffering the devastating consequences of this conflict. The international community and humanitarian organizations must intensify their efforts to meet the urgent needs of the Congolese population.
In conclusion, the Congolese writers’ statement highlights the crucial importance of peace and security in the DRC, and the call for collective action to end the violence and build a better future for all Congolese. The voices of the writers resonate as a call to action and solidarity, to create a future of peace and prosperity for the Congolese Nation.