### The response of Congolese architects to humanitarian crises: a vision beyond borders
The humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and more particularly in the east of the country, is tragic. Persistent conflicts, exacerbated by Rwandan military intervention and violence orchestrated by groups like AFC/m23, plunge millions of Congolese in distress. This crisis, often perceived only through humanitarian and security prism, also has an architectural and environmental dimension, an essential aspect for the reconstruction and resilience of affected communities.
On March 3, 2025, a press release from the National Order of Architects of Congo (ONA) surfaced, affirming its support and concern for its members and the inhabitants in occupied areas. This message was carried by its president, Fiyou Ndondoboni Monkoso, who shares a vision of hope for a recovery of the territories, but this vision deserves to be extended far beyond the simple prayers and hopes.
### A contextual analysis
Architects, as urban construction and development professionals, are often the first to feel the impacts of crises. When a community is moved, the loss of infrastructure, schools and housing does not only create immediate needs; This also erases the collective memory of a place, that which is built on architecture. In cities like Goma, where the consequences of conflicts mix with the challenges of sustainable development, the revival of local architecture could become a key factor to restore cultural identity and social cohesion.
A study by the NGO Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team revealed that around 300,000 Congolese live in displaced camps, often in precarious conditions. Architecture, through conceptions adapted to these realities, can offer solutions to create temporary but sustainable shelters, incorporating local materials and construction techniques adapted to available resources.
### A humanitarian architectural design
The architectural dimension of the crisis requires an innovative response. For example, initiatives like those of the Congolese architect Koffi Tchibinda, who develops models of raw earth houses, appear as a necessary response in line with the economic and environmental realities of the region. This type of construction not only reduces the cost, but also makes it possible to use the materials available locally while limiting the ecological footprint.
In parallel, the involvement of architects beyond the construction of buildings can also transform urban rehabilitation projects by emphasizing social inclusion and community participation. The creation of public spaces and regenerative community centers could not only stimulate the local economy but also offer gathering places to strengthen social ties, often weakened by war.
### Collective mobilization
ONA, by its call for solidarity and prayer, should not neglect the importance of alliances. Humanitarian architecture must go hand in hand with the mobilization of resources and financing to encourage reconstruction projects. The collaborative work between government organizations, NGOs, town halls and architects can make it possible to design integrated projects that meet the real needs of populations.
In addition, a global and inclusive approach must be adopted to integrate the votes of women and young people, often on the front line of crises, but generally underrepresented in decision-making processes. The creation of local committees to supervise infrastructure projects can be beneficial to promote Ownership and the sustainability of thirty initiatives.
### Conclusion: redefine architecture in a time of crisis
In conclusion, the reaction of Congolese architects in the face of the crisis in the east of the DRC initiates a broader debate on the role of architecture in the reconstruction of peace and living together. If ONA calls for prayer and hope, it is urgent to take action by embracing innovative practices that go beyond the simple construction framework and engage a lasting vision of town planning. The resilience of the Congolese populations is based as much on the territoriality it takes, as on the ability of professionals to get involved in the redefinition of their urban environment, despite the challenges imposed by war. An integration of these different dimensions could very well transform tragedies into creative opportunities, thus making it possible to restore social fabric and prepare a better future for everyone.