** The need for a Pan -African reflection for sustainable peace: the case of the Great Lakes **
War and armed conflicts are often perceived as distant dramas, relegated to the rank of plot news, relegating to the background the suffering of the impacted populations. In the case of the Great Lakes region, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), this perception can only contrast with the trying reality that millions of Congolese live on a daily basis. Émile Mapatano Kamboris, actor of civil society and human rights defender, calls for a collective start, but his call raises a crucial question: how to go beyond words and initiate a real change?
** An ignored but persistent situation **
The DRC is often cited as one of the countries richest in natural resources while being among the poorest in terms of living conditions. This dichotomy is the fruit of a complex colonial heritage, chaotic governance and, above all, an endless cycle of violence. According to United Nations figures, in 2023, the DRC has one of the strongest prevalence of acute malnutrition in the world, affecting nearly 3.4 million children. In this context, violence continues to tear not only social structures, but also the very idea of living together, a concept that Pan -Africanism advocates fervently.
Mapatano’s declaration highlighting the importance of banning the speeches of hatred and violence resonates as an appeal to action, but it must be accompanied by a re-examination of the socio-economic realities that feed these conflicts. The funds allocated to war, he underlines, could and should be redirected to development initiatives which would benefit local populations directly. This requires a paradigm shift.
** A reflection on peace: from theory to practice **
Based on an inclusive development model, the approach cannot be limited to ambitious speeches. It is essential to anchor these ideals in reality by concrete and measurable actions. For example, a partnership between civil companies in neighboring countries could be a promising path. The network of non -governmental organizations could engage in cross -border projects for economic and social development, thus creating links and establishing a dynamic of solidarity.
In parallel, the role of young people in this transformation is crucial. Statistics show that the DRC population is mainly young, with 60 % of the population under 25. This demographic group should be at the center of reconciliation and reconstruction initiatives. It is imperative to create educational programs which are not only aimed at teaching peace, but which also form a generation capable of questioning the historical accounts of division and hatred.
** Pan -Africanism: a model to follow **
One of the points underlined by Mapatano is the inspiration to draw Pan -Africanist ideals carried by figures such as Julius Nyerere. Ujamaa, or the concept of living together, perhaps more relevant than ever, invites us to consider our collective destiny as an initial linked. However, by highlighting this model, it is essential not to fall into the illusion of an idealization. Examples of regional cooperation, such as the cross -border cooperation initiative around Lake Albert, recall that the path is strewn with pitfalls, but possible.
Countries like Rwanda, which has experienced unimaginable atrocities, came to embody an example of resilience and reconstruction. By capitalizing on intercultural dialogue and economic development, they have succeeded in reducing internal tensions and promoting a peace environment. The DRC can, from the experience of its neighbors, benefit from strategic partnerships which favor the sharing of knowledge and the exchange of ideas.
** A possible future: the path of optimism and development **
The path to peace and stability in the Great Lakes region will be painful. Mapatano resilience calls and the demand for solidarity echo a collective need to come together around a common project based on human dignity and inclusive development. In the end, sustainable peace will not only be the fruit of political negotiations, but the result of the commitment of each citizen.
The road is still long, but a better understanding of our collective challenges and our ability to transcend divisions will be the key. The next step requires not only to recognize the current tragedy, but also to light the spark of a better future, where peace is not just a slogan, but a reality experienced by all the Congolese.
Franck Kaky/Fatshimetrie.org