Recent news from Bukavu highlights an urgent and persistent problem: gender-based violence (GBV). As the 16 days of activism against violence against women and girls begin, it is essential to emphasize that this campaign concerns not only women and girls, but also young boys, adult men and authorities. This is what Armelle Katembera, gender officer at Collectif 2250, based in Bukavu, emphasizes.
Through an intervention on Radio Okapi, Armelle Katembera highlights a worrying reality: women’s rights are often violated, particularly in schools and universities in Bukavu. Faced with this alarming observation, she calls for a general mobilization in favor of the fight against GBV.
The objective of this campaign goes beyond the simple framework of the 16 days of activism. The aim is to raise awareness among the entire community about the importance of combating gender-based violence throughout their lives. This involves educating children and younger generations to respect the rights of women and girls.
The situation in Bukavu demonstrates a crying need for change and collective awareness. Women and girls must no longer be victims of violence and discrimination. It is time to act together to build a more just and egalitarian society, where everyone can flourish in complete safety.
Faced with these crucial issues, it is essential that everyone feels concerned and involved. Authorities, schools, families, and the entire population must unite to put an end to GBV and establish a climate of respect and equality.
The road to a society free of gender-based violence is long, but it is essential to travel it together, with determination and solidarity. The 16 Days of Activism are just one step, among many, towards a better world for all. It is time to turn words into concrete actions, to make the voices of those who fight every day for their rights and dignity heard. Bukavu, like so many other cities around the world, deserves to be a place where everyone can live in safety and freedom, without fear of violence or discrimination.