**The brilliance of humanity: A meeting that illuminates the future of young girls in Kinshasa**
On January 4, 2025, in the heart of Kinshasa, the Republican Movement Our Future illuminated the social center of the Likemo Center on the occasion of Martyrs’ Day. Through this action, it was not only a question of attending a national holiday, but of creating an essential human connection with young girls and mothers who live in precarious situations. The theme of the meeting, “Inspiring girls towards our future”, resonates as a call for in-depth reflection on the untapped potential of these women, testifying to a social awareness and a desire for action.
### A picture of resilience
The situation of women in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is complex. With a poverty rate reaching nearly 70% according to the latest World Bank statistics, and an alarming prevalence of gender-based violence, the path to emancipation remains fraught with pitfalls. Meetings such as the one organized by the Mouvement Républicain Notre Avenir are therefore vital. They not only remind us of the importance of social solidarity, but also the need to invest in the education and health of young girls, the real driving force for lasting change.
### The voice of leaders
Executive Secretary Jacqueline Kamate was able to embody this dynamic of change, putting forward a message of hope and human dignity: “All we need to do is stimulate this potential for the light in them to shine, even in the darkest moments.” A phrase that echoes a socio-cultural reality that is entirely relevant when we consider that educating girls is one of the most effective ways to eradicate poverty and promote economic development. Indeed, according to UNICEF data, each additional year of schooling for a girl increases her future income by 10 to 20%.
### Symbolic and material support
The distribution of food donations and hygiene products during this meeting not only provides immediate material support, but also symbolizes an act of recognition on the part of civil society towards these women in vulnerable situations. However, this tangible act must be accompanied by long-term support, focused on education, vocational training and psychological support programs. This holistic approach is essential to ensure the success of initiatives such as those of the Mouvement Républicain Notre Avenir.
### Towards a better future
Roger Katembwe, director of the Likemo Emergency Reception Center, stressed the importance of this visit, indicating that it demonstrates a desire for commitment to populations in difficulty. This type of collaboration between civil society organizations and shelters is crucial, as it allows for a more targeted response to the needs of women and promotes their social reintegration. It is with this in mind that the Movement plans to launch, throughout 2025, a series of social initiatives aimed at ensuring the emancipation and personal development of these young women.
### A changing society
However, for such initiatives to have a significant impact, it is essential that society as a whole gets involved. This requires a change in mentalities, particularly through increased awareness of women’s rights and the importance of their role in social and economic development. In addition, collaboration with the private sector could also bear fruit, particularly through the creation of partnerships that would open up avenues for internships and professional training for these young girls.
### Conclusion: A glimmer of hope
The meeting of January 4, 2025 represents a moment of hope and change for the young girls and mothers of the Likemo Center. It illustrates the need to join forces to build a society where every woman can aspire to a better future. Jacqueline Kamate’s words transcend the simple confines of the social center; they are heard as a call to all Congolese: invest in education, in hope and in human dignity. It is time to shine the light that resides in each of these girls, not only for their own future, but for that of an entire nation. In this fight, commitment is not an option, but a civic obligation.