** The call to unity of the Cenco bishops: a cry of heart in the face of a sociolinguistic fracture **
The press release from the bishops of the Congo National Episcopal Conference (CENCO), published on February 22, resonates like a desperate echo in a country that has crossed so many tumults. By denouncing the “hunting and stigma of swahiliphones”, they arouse a deep reflection on the foundations of Congolese identity and the dangers of an intolerance which, by kissing, could revive poorly cured historical scars.
It is crucial to analyze this situation in a broader context, taking into account not only the linguistic dimension but also its political, social and economic implications. The fact that some “pastors” exploit their influence to stir up linguistic hatred raises questions about the role of religious leaders in the process of national reconciliation. Instead of being bridges builders, these actors become troublemakers, encouraging division where harmony and understanding should reign.
### a worrying linguistic fracture
The situation in Kinshasa is not isolated; It is part of a rich and complex sociolinguistic landscape where several languages coexist. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, French, Lingala, Kikongo, Tshiluba and Swahili are not simply means of communication, but identity emblems. Among these languages, Swahili, widely spoken in the east of the country, is at the heart of exacerbated tensions. This stigma phenomenon is not unprecedented. Studies show that worldwide is often used as an identity marker, sometimes serving as a discrimination and division tool.
Research by sociologists show that tensions around language can lead to conflicts of an intensity similar to those based on ethnic or religious considerations. The climate of distrust and excluded excluded around the language can nevertheless compromise peace efforts. It is a reality that must be approached without delay, because every day lost to feed this stigma is one day too much for the stability of a country already weakened by internal struggles.
### the church as an actor of change
The alarm cry of bishops catalyzes a broader reflection on the role of the church in the Congolese social fabric. They position themselves here not only as religious leaders, but also as social peacekeepers. By calling on the government to act, they recognize that a real social cohesion policy must include active participation of all communities, regardless of their linguistic affiliations.
Bishops could also play an essential role in the education of believers. Inter -community education programs could be developed, if not already done, to encourage acceptance and appreciation of the different cultures and languages of the country. The church, by its network of influence, could become a real pole of unity, using its platforms to promote messages of peace and mutual respect.
### to an inclusive national identity
The political response to this sociolinguistic crisis must be reflected and structured. This requires the implementation of linguistic policies that officially recognize the country’s multicultural and multilingual status. In this regard, the DRC’s diversity charter could be revisited and reinforced to promote a long -term inclusive vision. Inclusive governance models such as those found in other multi -human countries, such as Switzerland or Canada, could serve as inspiring examples.
Such an initiative requires a long -term commitment to the rulers to ensure that each group feels both heard and respected. Initiatives for inter -community dialogue could be set up to encourage cooperation between the different linguistic communities, and this from an early age in the education system.
### Conclusion: A call to collective awareness
The press release from the Cenco bishops is more than a simple warning; It is an invitation to collective awareness in the face of the potentially destructive drift of a fracture society. Stigmatization based on language is not inevitable, but a fight to lead together.
Beyond government decrees and sermons in churches, it is a real revision of mentalities that is required. Everyone has a role to play: citizens, community, political and religious leaders, in the struggle for a peaceful coexistence which celebrates the diversity of the linguistic heritage of the DRC. In the end, it is by unity that the country can hope to overcome its challenges and build a future where each voice, whatever its language, has its place.