During the recent States General of the Press held in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo, journalists launched an urgent call to work more for social cohesion in the North Kivu and South Kivu regions. Faced for decades with devastating conflicts, these provinces are in dire need of reconciliation and peace. The President of the National Union of the Press of Congo for North Kivu, Rosalie Zawadi, stressed the importance of this dual role of the press: to inform and contribute to reconciliation.
In a context marked by the scars of war and human rights violations, it has become essential for the media not to limit themselves to reporting the facts, but also to promote discourses of peace. Journalists are called upon to give a voice to those who work for social reconstruction, to encourage solidarity and harmony between communities.
Rosalie Zawadi quotes Nelson Mandela, recalling the transformative power of the media, capable of educating, mobilizing and bringing people together. She stresses the urgency for journalists in both provinces to take this responsibility to heart and to actively engage in building a more peaceful and just society. The press, according to her, plays a central role in the peace, justice and development process in the DRC.
A call for solidarity between media professionals in North Kivu and South Kivu was launched, highlighting the importance of joining forces to advance the cause of the press in this region. Strengthening ties, sharing experiences and working together for stronger and more resilient journalism are key commitments made by Rosalie Zawadi and the Corporation of Media Professionals in North Kivu.
The photos of committed journalists, captured in action during these general states of the press in Bukavu, bear witness to their determination to contribute to social cohesion and the reconstruction of a damaged social fabric. Their hard work and commitment to peace and justice are essential pillars for the harmonious future of the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu.