### An initiative of union and peace: Cenco and ECC on the front line
In a globalized context where regional conflicts seem to confirm endless cycles of violence, the recent meeting between the Delegation of the National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO), the Church of Christ in Congo (ECC), and the Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, is part of a series of initiatives resolutely committed to the promotion of peace in the region of Great Lakes. This dialogue, held on March 4 in Uganda, raises fundamental issues that deserve a deeper analysis than the simple decryption of events.
#### A complex setting: the Great Lakes region
The Great Lakes region, devastated by successive conflicts, is at the crossroads. With countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi, the challenge of peace is of unprecedented scale. According to statistics from the UN humanitarian affairs office, more than 5.5 million people are moved to the DRC, often as a consequence of armed conflicts that are rooted in complex historical dynamics and ethnic rivalries. The initiative of CENCO and ECC could thus present itself as an answer to this human tragedy.
Their discussions with President Museveni include themes such as frank dialogue around peace, a crucial term that points to a need for mutual listening and compromise. This recalls the importance of getting out of the communication patterns that had prevailed in the past, each of the protagonists encamping on its positions without considering real concessions.
#### The Social Pact for Peace and Welcome together: a collective vision
The scope of a concept such as the “Social Pact for Peace and Welcome together” does not only reside in its formulation, but also in its concrete application. This project, presented to President Félix Tshisekedi, embodies the collective will of several social and political actors to place humans at the center of any peace initiative. What makes this single pact are its ability to federate not only political leaders, but also religious leaders and members of civil society. In this regard, it could serve as a model for other initiatives in similar contexts across the continent.
#### A holistic approach: sustainable solutions
Security challenges within the DRC are not limited to simple armed clashes. Food insecurity, access to education and the fight against poverty are inseparable components that CENCO and ECC must also take into account. Studies by the World Health Organization show the impact of living conditions on social stability. Inter-community violence is often exacerbated by the deterioration of socio-economic conditions.
Thus, the report that the delegation will give to the state after its meetings should include a multi-sectoral approach, incorporating economic, educational and health aspects, to support its vision of peace.
### towards a new era of religious diplomacy
This meeting between religious leaders and a head of state in practice also underlines an emerging tendency: religious diplomacy as a vector of influence on political decisions. Through the figure of Pastor Eric Nsenga, spokesperson for the ECC, a new space for dialogue opens, placed under the prism of spiritual and moral values. The role of religious organizations in the restoration of peace has been underestimated in many debates, when they are often better placed to reach communities in crisis because of their local rooting.
#### Conclusion: Building on the foundations of hope
The initiative of the two Congolese churches goes beyond simple diplomacy; It builds bridges between the different fractions of a fractured company. It is essential that this dynamic is accompanied by international support, not only in terms of discussions, but also in the allocation of financial and human resources for the implementation of concrete solutions. In the end, sustainable peace in the Great Lakes region will only be achievable if all – governments, civil societies and international actors – are truly committed to this common goal.
Only an inclusive and exhaustive approach will be able to restore confidence between the peoples of this dynamic and tormented region. Because, as an old adage in Africa points out, “if you want to go fast, walk alone. If you want to go far, walk together.”