**National Cohesion and Interreligious Dialogue: An Urgent Call from CENCO and ECC in the Face of the Crisis in the DRC**
On February 3, a significant moment occurred at the African Union City, where President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi received a joint delegation from the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) and the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC). This gesture resonates as a strong symbol in a country where the wounds of the past continue to haunt minds and where the quest for peace has become an absolute necessity. The meeting, although apparently formal, could well mark a turning point in the political and social dynamics of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
### A Project to End the Crisis
The initiative presented by these religious leaders, under the aegis of Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, seeks to address the national crisis through an innovative approach. Bishop Donatien Nshole stressed the importance of national cohesion as a fundamental pillar to overcome the tensions affecting the DRC, particularly in the east of the country. This project, although mysterious in its details, evokes a desire to involve all layers of society in an open dialogue. This not only aligns with President Tshisekedi’s call, but also shows a collective responsibility of the Churches in the face of political and humanitarian crises.
### A necessary interreligious approach
The Churches in the DRC, through CENCO and ECC, find themselves at a crossroads where their collective voice can bring about real transformation. By reaching out to the President, they are positioning themselves as key intermediaries to foster interreligious dialogue and reconciliation. This model could be compared to similar initiatives observed in other African countries, such as Rwanda, which, after the 1994 genocide, made national reconciliation the cornerstone of its societal reconstruction. Religious leaders have helped to consolidate harmony between the different communities, acting not only as pastors, but also as peacebuilders.
### The situation in eastern DRC: a relentless struggle
Cardinal Ambongo expressed his deep concern about the continuing humanitarian tragedy in the eastern part of the country. This observation is shared by informed observers, who realize that more than 5 million people have been displaced by the conflicts. The country is experiencing one of the most serious humanitarian crises in the world, exacerbated by factors such as war, poverty and malnutrition. While the world often focuses on cold statistics, it is crucial to remember that behind these numbers are human lives, decimated families and an exhausted population yearning for peace..
### Towards an inclusive political solution
The concrete proposals that the Churches put on the table must therefore take into account the socio-economic and cultural realities of the country. For this, a national consensus must be found, as mentioned by Reverend Eric Nsenga. By integrating diverse voices into the decision-making process, including those of young people and women, pressure can be relieved and sustainable solutions can emerge. This type of inclusive approach is all the more relevant at a time when social movements, such as those observed during the 2017 protests, show the ardent desire for change and community participation.
### Conclusion: A new hope for the DRC
In sum, the meeting between Félix Tshisekedi and the CENCO-ECC delegation offers a glimmer of hope in the dark reality of the DRC. As religious leaders commit to positioning themselves as agents of change, their role could become crucial in shaping the future of the country. The recent history of the DRC teaches us that dialogue is essential, as are collective action and compassion. All that remains now is to hope that words will translate into concrete actions that can restore human dignity and lasting peace, key elements for a peaceful future. The time has come for the DRC to redefine itself, not only by its crises, but also by its capacities to build a common future.