Fatshimetrie is publishing today an in-depth reflection on the crucial role of tourism in promoting peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, World Tourism Day was recently celebrated in Kinshasa by the National Tourism Office, which chose to highlight the inseparable link between tourism and the construction of a peaceful society.
ONT executives and agents spoke through various media to raise awareness among the Congolese population, highlighting the importance of tourism as a vector of exchanges and discoveries between nations. Under the theme “Tourism and Peace”, this day highlighted that peace is essential for tourism to fully flourish. Allan Lofoli, regional deputy director of ONT, notably stressed that tranquility is essential for tourists to fully experience travel, discovery and sharing.
Minister Didier M’Pambia stressed that tourism can play a decisive role in consolidating peace in the DRC. Indeed, by promoting intercultural dialogue and promoting the country’s cultural heritage, tourism helps to strengthen ties between communities and promote values of peace and social cohesion.
Furthermore, the launch of the “Provincial School and Memorial Tourism Program” by the Provincial Minister of Tourism of Kinshasa, Jésus-Noël Sheke, shows the importance of raising awareness among young people about the history and cultural heritage of the capital. This program also aims to promote values such as peace and respect for the environment, essential elements for the development of Congolese society.
Finally, the Director General of the ONT expressed the wish to see peace restored in the East of the DRC, a region rich in tourism potential, but which has been marked by armed conflicts for too long. She thus underlines the importance of peace for the development of tourism and calls for collective mobilization to promote a culture of peace throughout the country.
In conclusion, it becomes clear that tourism can play a major role in building a peaceful society in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By encouraging exchanges, promoting cultural heritage and promoting values of peace, tourism positions itself as an essential lever to foster dialogue and mutual understanding between peoples.