### National unit in the face of assault: a multidimensional response to the Congolese challenge
On February 10, 2025, in a climate of exacerbated tensions on the African continent, Francine Muyumba launched a vibrant appeal to national unity in reaction to the perceived threat of the Rwandan aggression towards the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This speech, published on his X account, is not only limited to a desire to bring together the Congolese, but also raises a deeper question concerning the resilience of a nation in the face of both internal and external crises.
#### The weight of the past
The complexity of relations between the DRC and Rwanda dates back several decades. The civil war in the DRC at the end of the 1990s, exacerbated by the Rwandan invasion, left indelible traces. The memory of the millions of lost lives and the massive displacements of populations still feeds suspicions between the two countries today. The accusation by Kinshasa of Rwandan support to armed groups in the east of the country is an enlightening example of this sustainable suspicion. On the other hand, Kigali justifies his presence by the need to counter security threats represented by rebel groups which could ease peace in its own border regions.
This complex story underlines the importance of adopting not only a unity discourse, but also an approach likely to treat the roots of these historical conflicts. Muyumba’s call to “national cohesion” could be considered as the opportunity to initiate a national reconciliation approach which would consider larger interests and collective security prospects.
#### A strategic reaction
The assertion that “Congo belongs to us and will thus remain” must be considered in a broader context. While promoting a feeling of sovereignty, it is imperative to recognize the current regional political dynamics. The spouse of SADC and EAC has, for example, proposed crucial resolutions, such as an immediate cease-fire, testifying to the will of the surrounding countries to find a peaceful outcome to this tense situation. However, the desire for real implementation and local circumstances must be carefully assessed.
It is also with dignity that the response to crises of this scale requires a more inclusive and pluralist approach. The DRC must consider dialogue not only with Rwanda but also with other regional actors such as Uganda, Burundi and even the African Union, which could play an essential mediator role.
###Ove a development -oriented approach
However, the hope of sustainable reconciliation cannot be separated from socio-economic development. The DRC is richly endowed with natural resources which, if managed properly, could contribute to the peace and stability of the country. Transparency and governance processes are crucial to ensure that resources really benefit the population and not only from a limited elite. According to recent data from the World Bank, despite considerable wealth, the DRC remains one of the poorest countries in the world in terms of GDP per capita. This anomaly creates a fertile soil with resentment and rebellion, the consequences of which are often tragic.
#### to an interconnected future
Finally, it is essential to adopt a futuristic perspective where diplomacy and interconnection would become tools to combat aggression and disunity. In an increasingly globalized world, the DRC, as a giant of the heart of Africa, has the potential to become a central player in regional security discussions. Transnational dynamics such as trade, integrated infrastructure and joint efforts in sustainable development could not only strengthen national cohesion, but also advance the country’s position on the international chessboard.
In short, Francine Muyumba’s call to national unity is not only a poignant message imbued with national pride, but it must also be the first in a series of calls for reflection, reconciliation and reform. In an uncertain world, the path to peace and prosperity lies in the ability to transcend historical conflicts and to build a better future together. The Congo, as its ancestors wanted, deserves a glorious future.