In the heart of the rural commune of Oicha, in the Beni territory of North Kivu, a social issue is attracting attention: the responsibility of parents during the harvest season, mainly for cocoa. During this crucial period for the local economy, some abuses have been noted, highlighting inappropriate behavior, such as drunkenness and frequenting brothels, thus contributing to a worrying social disorder.
Jean de Dieu Kibwana, deputy mayor of the commune, calls on parents to fully assume their educational and supervisory role. He emphasizes that the cocoa harvest should be an opportunity to improve the standard of living of families and not to plunge society into chaos. Indeed, investing intelligently in this agricultural activity could play a decisive role in local development, provided that harmful excesses are not allowed.
During this crucial period, the education of children and the responsible financial management of harvest income are at the heart of concerns. Rather than being drawn into excesses, it is essential that parents encourage their children to continue their education, consider sustainable investments such as purchasing plots of land, and ensure their well-being and health.
Jean de Dieu Kibwana warns against the dangers of irresponsible exploitation of this harvest period, stressing that the situation must not degenerate into a time conducive to harmful behaviors, such as polygamy or excessive alcohol consumption. These excesses could plunge the commune back into a vicious circle of underdevelopment, while the economic potential of cocoa could be a lever for significant progress.
Ultimately, the cocoa harvest season in Oicha represents both an opportunity and a challenge for the local community. It reflects the complex social dynamics that require active parental involvement to ensure a better future, based on the values of work, education and responsibility. An enlightened and ethical approach to this key period could transform challenges into opportunities for sustainable development and prosperity for all.