**Reducing the cost of living of institutions: a quest for national unity in the face of the war effort in the DRC**
President Félix Tshisekedi’s recent speech, aimed at reducing the cost of living of institutions in the context of a growing armed conflict in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), provokes profound reflections on the nature of governance in times of war and the role of economic actors and civil society in such a context. An announcement that comes at a critical time, where the violent clashes around Goma highlight not only the fragility of peace in this region, but also the need for collective mobilization to overcome immediate challenges.
**A call for national solidarity**
In his speech, Tshisekedi emphasized the importance of collective responsibility, delivering a motivating speech to mobilize the entire nation. He invoked an essential principle: that of national unity. The key phrase of his message, “We will win this war through our unity, our courage and our sense of responsibility”, resonates as a call to overcome the socio-political and economic divisions that are very present in the current Congolese landscape.
The approach adopted by the President can be compared to other war situations, such as that of France under Nazi occupation during World War II. At the time, leaders and members of civil society were also called upon to make sacrificial efforts to support the armed forces. The Congolese national community, just like these French actors of the past, is now invited to cultivate a sense of belonging in the face of a common threat.
**Economic impact and reallocation of resources**
The decision to redirect public resources towards supporting the armed forces could, however, raise questions about how this will impact other sectors, including health, education and infrastructure. The economic context in the DRC is already fragile, and a reduction in institutional budgets could exacerbate existing difficulties. In 2022, 63% of the population lived below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. This context makes the challenge of balancing support for the military with the basic needs of the population crucial.
The project of saving on the standard of living of institutions could also initiate a reflection on the transparency and efficiency of public spending. To compensate for this movement, solutions must include not only budget cuts, but also a more systematic fight against corruption and waste. In this sense, the call for the private sector to participate is an innovative dimension that could strengthen citizen engagement. It is imperative that businesses, especially those benefiting from natural resources in the DRC, feel invested in local economic development by actively contributing to the war effort.
**Voices of the World: Diplomacy and Regional Relations**
Alongside the call for unity, the direction of regional diplomacy is of crucial importance. Kinshasa does not seem willing to engage in direct dialogue with the M23 for the time being, choosing instead to turn to Kigali. Escalating tensions with Rwanda could create irreparable fractures in bilateral relations, reinforcing a climate of hostility that would benefit neither country. The history of rivalries and alliances in the African Great Lakes must be taken into account in finding lasting solutions.
The use of Joao Lourenço, the Angolan mediator, remains a glimmer of hope in the face of the lack of progress. His reputation as a seasoned diplomat could help create a climate conducive to peace. Despite past diplomatic failures, Angola represents a model of geopolitical balance that deserves serious attention in future discussions.
**Conclusion: A collective challenge to be met**
Félix Tshisekedi’s speech and the measures announced represent a decisive moment for the DRC. They remind us that times of crisis, both military and humanitarian, are not managed solely by government decisions, but by a collective dynamic involving each stratum of society. The path to appeasement and victory in such circumstances requires an unprecedented mobilization of all nationals, whether in Kinshasa or Goma, and a shared awareness of the need to unite in the face of adversity.
It also reminds us that a war is not won only on the battlefield, but in the capacity of society to stand together and support its armed forces while preserving the dignity and well-being of its citizens. The evolution of this situation, both military and diplomatic, will have to be closely monitored, because it could redefine not only the borders of the DRC, but also its place in the broader context of Africa.