*Fatshimetrie, edition of June 23, 2024*
In the Kananga region, in the heart of central Kasai in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a laudable initiative has emerged to combat gender-based violence (GBV). Local communities were recently made aware of this scourge which is plaguing our society, during the launch of an information campaign on GBV.
At the initiative of the NGO Femme Main dans la Main pour le Développement Integral (FMMDI), community leaders were invited to actively engage in the fight against gender-based violence. Nathalie Kambala Luse, director of the organization on the ground, emphasizes the importance of providing leaders with the tools necessary to face this major problem. The discussions focused in particular on the reporting of cases of GBV to the competent authorities and on the process of referring victims with a view to comprehensive and appropriate care.
Gender-based violence, in its different forms such as sexual violence, harassment, or even forced marriage, is unfortunately too widespread in our society. It is imperative to raise awareness among the entire population to break this silence and actively fight against these unacceptable practices.
Civil society actors, religious leaders, as well as women’s organizations and neighborhood leaders present during this awareness raising unanimously welcome this initiative. They recognize the crucial importance of collectively committing to the fight against GBV, in order to protect the rights and dignity of everyone.
This first step taken in Kananga will not be the last. Awareness raising will continue in different neighborhoods of the city, thus reaching an ever-increasing number of people. It is essential to create a dynamic in the fight against gender-based violence, and it is together that we will succeed in bringing about lasting change.
Ultimately, this awareness campaign in Kananga marks a concrete step towards a fairer and more equitable society, where everyone can live in security and respect. The fight against gender-based violence is everyone’s business, and it is through our collective commitment that we will succeed in building a better future for everyone.