**Celebration of International Widows’ Day in Kinshasa: A call to action to promote women’s rights**
Kinshasa, June 25, 2024 – The Democratic Republic of Congo recently launched a series of activities to celebrate International Widows’ Day in Kinshasa, marking its commitment to promoting stability and the rights of widows. Led by the Ministry of Gender, Family and Children, the Congolese government has emphasized its support for the country’s widows, recognizing their struggles and seeking to support them in overcoming the challenges they face.
In a statement full of compassion and determination, Mrs. Léonnie Kandolo Omoyi, Minister of Gender, Family and Children, affirmed that widows are not alone and promised to support them in promoting their stability and of their rights. Highlighting the multiple initiatives taken by the Congolese government for the well-being of families, she highlighted the revision of the family code, the adoption of child protection laws, as well as support for entrepreneurship. feminine.
The celebration of International Widows’ Day in the DRC is a valuable opportunity to raise awareness among the population of the vulnerability of this segment of society, often affected by premature deaths or armed conflicts. Mr. Désiré Iseloko Bokungu, Acting Director General of the National Office for the Promotion of Family Stability (ONAF), recalled the challenges to be taken up to promote the rights of widows. Informing and raising awareness about inheritance laws, encouraging the drafting of wills, involving customary authorities and community leaders, are all essential steps to support widows in their quest for justice and dignity.
ONAF called for investment in solid and reliable data to support policies in favor of widows, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to guarantee the legal and social protection of these women. While International Widows’ Day is an opportunity to raise awareness and mobilize resources for their well-being, it is essential to continue to provide them with educational, financial and social support to enable them to reach their full potential.
In conclusion, the celebration of International Widows’ Day in Kinshasa is a call to action for the promotion of the rights of women and widows in particular. By supporting these courageous women and recognizing their essential contribution to society, the DRC is resolutely committed to a more inclusive and equitable future for all.