In a world marked by multiple conflicts and crises, the situation in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo raises concerns about the resulting humanitarian and environmental consequences. During a morning of exchanges and solidarity organized by the Church of Christ in Congo-ECC and the conference of churches throughout Africa-CETA, Expert in armed conflict management Julien Paluku Kahongya highlighted the urgency of the situation.
With a direct and lucid approach, this PhD student in Political and Administrative Sciences at the University of Kinshasa underlined the extent of the violence and human losses which are ravaging the region. According to him, the crisis in eastern DRC is often relegated to the background, despite its devastating impact on local populations and the environment. Massacres, forced displacements, destruction of natural resources… so many scourges which plague the region and call for urgent action.
Julien Paluku Kahongya also highlighted the question of recognition of the Congolese genocide, with its millions of victims, the result of conflicts fueled by external economic and political interests. It calls for the establishment of instruments of state power to establish peace and put an end to the abuses perpetrated by various armed groups.
Furthermore, the conflict management expert invited the church delegates present to become ambassadors of the Congolese cause, in order to raise awareness among the international community of the seriousness of the situation. He underlines the importance of making the voice of the DRC heard, victim of a conflict that is largely unknown and underestimated on the international scene.
Beyond the speeches and declarations, Julien Paluku Kahongya highlights the real issues underlying the violence in the east of the DRC. He denounces the fallacious pretexts put forward by certain actors to justify the occupation and exploitation of Congolese lands. Natural resources, such as coltan, tin or cassiterite, are becoming strategic issues, to the detriment of local populations and regional stability.
As clashes continue and civilian populations are trapped in incessant violence, it is urgent for the international community to become aware of the urgency of the situation in the DRC. Recognizing and condemning the Congolese genocide, putting an end to the impunity of those responsible, and promoting lasting solutions for peace and development are imperatives that cannot be ignored.
Ultimately, Julien Paluku Kahongya’s call resonates as a cry of alarm, an invitation to solidarity and action. Peace and stability in the DRC are not a luxury, but a necessity for the entire Great Lakes region and beyond. It is time for the international community to take responsibility and act to put an end to the suffering and injustices that have continued for too long.