In the heart of the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa, an unusual image captured the attention of spectators on Tuesday, December 3, 2024: that of President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi wearing goalkeeper gloves. This unusual scene aroused astonishment and curiosity, suggesting a strong symbolic message in favor of peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Indeed, by taking on the role of peacekeeper, President Tshisekedi wanted to embody a symbol of protection and commitment to a peaceful future for his country. As the DRC struggles to restore stability, particularly in the eastern region where conflicts persist, this initiative recalls the importance of solidarity and fraternity to build a bright future.
The gala match for the promotion of peace, sponsored by President Tshisekedi, brought together emblematic personalities of African football such as Samuel Eto’o, Jay-Jay Okocha and Emmanuel Adebayor. Beyond the sporting spectacle, this event was an opportunity to bring together artists and civil society actors, all united by the same objective: to promote peace and solidarity.
Congolese music and comedy stars such as Fally Ipupa, Gaz Mawete, Fiston Saï and Herman Amisi lent their support to this noble cause, thus highlighting the importance of the commitment of all actors in society for positive change.
In his statement after the match, Samuel Eto’o expressed his honor to participate in this event and support the cause of peace in the DRC. Jay-Jay Okocha also affirmed the importance of showing solidarity with populations affected by conflict, including displaced children.
By inviting around 100 displaced children from Goma to attend this match, the organizers offered a moment of respite and joy to young people often plunged into tragic circumstances. This humanitarian initiative is part of a broader approach aimed at raising awareness of the challenges of peace and promoting the role of sport as a vector of unity and social development.
The funds raised during this meeting will be allocated to supporting victims of conflicts in the east of the country, thus contributing to improving the living conditions of populations affected by the war. By mobilizing the vital forces of Congolese society around this event, President Tshisekedi stressed the importance of collective commitment to building a better future for all.
In short, beyond the simple football match, this meeting for peace was the scene of a citizen and solidarity mobilization in favor of a more united and prosperous Congo. By combining sport, culture and humanitarian commitment, this event will remain etched in memories as a call to action for the construction of a future of peace and fraternity in the Democratic Republic of Congo.