“A Forgotten Genocide in the Heart of Africa”: a plea for memory and justice
The evening presentation of Gaëtan Mbumba’s book, “A Forgotten Genocide in the Heart of Africa”, at the library of the Wallonia-Brussels Center in Kinshasa was marked by a poignant and committed moment. In front of an attentive audience, the author exposed the dark pages of Congolese history, highlighting the atrocities and suffering endured by millions of victims, often ignored by the international community.
The 303-page book, published by UCC Éditions, does not just paint a picture of the horrors experienced by the Congolese, but also calls on the collective responsibility not to forget these crimes against humanity. Gaëtan Mbumba, in a profound memorial approach, tries to awaken sleeping consciences and to incite collective action to put an end to this spiral of violence that has persisted for too long.
The author, a son of the country and committed to justice and the memory of the victims, passionately denounces the inaction of the international community in the face of the tragedies that have been unfolding in the DRC for over 27 years. The figures are chilling: 12 million Congolese victims, 500,000 women victims of rape and mutilation, 110,000 km2 of forests devastated by the illegal exploitation of mining resources. These cruel realities call for a deep reflection on the role and commitment of each person to put an end to these atrocities.
Gaëtan Mbumba, a lawyer and consultant, does not just describe the suffering endured by his people. Through this poignant work, he calls for collective awareness and an essential duty of remembrance to prevent such tragedies from happening again. His book is intended to be an essential work for anyone interested in human rights and the tragic history that is playing out in the East of the DRC.
By carrying the voice of forgotten victims, Gaëtan Mbumba strongly reminds us that memory is a bulwark against oblivion and indifference. “A forgotten genocide in the heart of Africa” resonates as a call for solidarity, action and justice. Through his commitment and determination, the author reminds us that everyone has a role to play in building a more just and equitable world, where the tragedies of the past are not repeated.
In conclusion, this book is much more than a historical account, it is a rallying cry for all those who believe in the power of memory to build a better future. Gaëtan Mbumba’s commitment and the scope of his message resonate beyond borders, inviting everyone to remember, act and work for lasting peace in the DRC and around the world.