Fatshimetrie is a remarkable cultural phenomenon celebrating the richness and diversity of indigenous Pygmy peoples in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Every year, August 9 is dedicated to the International Day of Indigenous Pygmy Peoples (PAP), an opportunity to raise awareness among the general public about the importance of protecting the rights and lifestyles of these communities.
The law on the protection of PAP, promulgated by President Felix Tshisekedi two years ago, represents a major step forward in the recognition and preservation of the rights of Congolese indigenous peoples. However, it is essential to promote and popularize this legislation to ensure its effective implementation on the ground. Civil society actors are mobilized to inform and raise awareness among the population on the issues related to the protection of PAP.
Indigenous Pygmy peoples have a close relationship with their natural environment, depending on the forest for their subsistence and cultural identity. Any change in their habitat can have disastrous consequences on their ancestral way of life and well-being. It is therefore crucial to preserve the ecosystems on which these communities depend, by implementing effective conservation policies that respect the rights of indigenous peoples.
John Benani, Advocacy Officer at the Dynamique des Groupes des Peuples Autochtones Pygmées (DGPA), stresses the importance of supporting efforts to protect the rights of PAPs in the DRC. He calls for collective action to ensure the implementation of existing laws and promote respect for the traditions and ways of life of indigenous peoples.
On this International Day of the Pygmy Indigenous Peoples, let us remember the importance of preserving the cultural and biological diversity of our planet. Promoting the rights of indigenous peoples also means defending the dignity and heritage of these communities who have so much to teach us about harmonious coexistence with nature. Let us participate in this great movement of solidarity with indigenous peoples and commit to protecting their heritage for future generations.