** Title: The war effort in the Democratic Republic of Congo: symbolic and economic realities of a national mobilization **
On February 7, 2025, a strong signal was given within the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) when a check for a million dollars was delivered by the Multimodal Freight Management Office (OGEFREM) to the vice- Prime Minister in charge of Transport, Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo. This gesture has aroused various reactions, both national and international, revealing the complexities of citizen engagement in the face of an emergency and increasing military tension.
### A context of mobilization
The DRC, under pressure due to regional tensions, especially with Rwanda and the M23 type rebellions, is at a crucial turning point. The Ogefrem check is presented not only as financial aid, but also as a symbolic act of solidarity towards a nation in the face of an internal and external adversary. The chairman of the board of directors of OGEFREM, Amisi Makutano, stressed that this act goes beyond the financial framework, evoking values of commitment and patriotism. This is not an isolated case: other public companies in the country could be encouraged to follow up on, thus creating a dynamic of national mobilization.
## when the public sector takes the initiative
In a period when the cash flow of state companies is often narrow, the gesture of OGEFREM stands out. The decision to contribute to the war effort, despite financial difficulties, raises questions about the country’s economic priorities. In a context where the Congolese economy is already vulnerable, this type of contribution may seem paradoxical. Why sacrifice valuable resources? The answer certainly lies in the nature of the threat to which the DRC faces. National integrity justifies this sacrifice, according to leaders.
### A door open to a wide reflection
This type of mobilization can also be put into perspective with similar initiatives in other countries facing security challenges. For example, France, in the 1940s, had seen contributions from its public enterprises to the war effort during the Second World War, as part of a national mobilization. Likewise, Ukraine, faced with the Russian invasion, has collected funds through private and public initiatives, thus engaging its people in a collective effort to defend the territory. These situations illustrate that, although the context is different, the need for a unified response to adversity remains a recurring scheme.
### Economic repercussions
This type of war effort can also lead to significant economic repercussions. On the one hand, companies that choose to support the war effort can strengthen their brand image and their social acceptability, thus increasing their legitimacy in the country. On the other hand, such a mobilization can have repercussions on the local economy, in particular by redistributing resources temporarily.
Statistics show that civic and public contributions to war efforts can increase social cohesion and mitigate the effects of the crisis. During the early years following their mobilization, countries at war can see an increase in solidarity between citizens. In addition, similar initiatives can also stimulate innovation, bringing companies to redirect their resources to projects of collective interest.
### The role of youth
Another salient point underlined by Amisi Makutano is the essential role of youth in this mobilization. Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo was particularly active in the commitment of young people to defend the country. By propeling the youngest at the heart of this struggle, we do not only build a defensive nation, but we also shape a generation ready to assume responsibilities. The methodology of this integration must however be carefully examined to avoid operating or sending young people to the front line in situations where their security could be compromised.
### Conclusion: A call for collective action
The delivery of this check by OGEFREM extends far beyond the financial aspect. This is a call for collective action, a rallying cry for national unity in the face of threats. If the DRC wants to resist external pressures, it will be crucial to cultivate a culture of responsibility, citizen engagement and solidarity. In doing so, the historical past of mobilization for the defense of the country must inspire the future of a nation which aspires to peace and prosperity.
The challenge remains enormous, but it is through concrete gestures, mutual support and unfailing determination that the Congolese, whether outside or inside the borders, will be able to build a better future.