Fatshimetrie, 25 June 2024 – The determination and strength of the people of Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in the face of persistent Rwandan aggression was highlighted in a moving speech by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa, delivered to an enthusiastic crowd gathered at Bukavu’s Independence Square.
In a poignant statement, the Prime Minister hailed the courage and resilience of South Kivu as a symbol of the fight against the injustice perpetrated by Rwanda against the country for many years. She stressed that despite the hardships endured, the people of the region have continued to struggle to provide for their families and protect their territory.
In a solemn pledge, Ms. Suminwa committed to addressing the challenges facing the population, with a particular focus on security. She promised to strengthen the army and police to ensure the protection of citizens and restore peace in the region. The Prime Minister also affirmed her determination to stabilize the economy by working to resolve the issues related to the exchange rate of the Congolese franc against the US dollar.
Turning to infrastructure, Ms. Suminwa acknowledged the challenges posed by the state of roads in the province and promised to take steps to improve the situation. She assured that ongoing infrastructure projects would be continued and new ones would be launched, including the upgrading of major roads in the region such as Bukavu-Uvira and Bukavu-Goma, as well as the Kavumu airport.
In addition to closing the UN mission bases in the region, the Prime Minister’s visit to South Kivu aimed to meet and listen to various local stakeholders, including the Federation of Congolese Enterprises, civil society, religious groups and women’s organizations, to integrate their perspectives into her government’s agenda. Ms. Suminwa also planned to visit victims of the recent fires that affected the city of Bukavu.
The arrival of Prime Minister Judith Suminwa in Bukavu, accompanied by a high-level government delegation, marks a new chapter in the relationship between the central government and the people of eastern DRC. Her strong desire to understand the needs and aspirations of the people of the region demonstrates a deep commitment to building a better future for all Congolese.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa’s vibrant speech in Bukavu reflects a message of unity, solidarity and hope for the Congolese people. Her determination to address the challenges facing the country, particularly in the East, points to a promising future where peace, security and development will be at the heart of the government’s concerns.