** Training and commitment: the new FARDC officers in the face of the security challenges of the DRC **
In a military context where the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is faced with external threats, in particular the rebellion of the M23 sponsored by Rwanda, the commitment of the State to strengthen its armed forces asserts itself as an imperative. The recent swearing ceremony for officers of the 36th ordinary promotion and the 19th special session of the Kananga Military Academy, chaired by the defense Deputy Prime Minister, Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita, constitutes a strong symbolic moment, but also revealing the security issues that paralyze the country.
### The imperative of the training
Military training, often perceived as a traditional step, is today an cornerstone of the reform of the Congolese army. With the “FEC” slogan for training, equipment, barracks, the Congolese government aims to professionalize its armed forces to deal with increasingly complex crisis situations. The Kananga Academy, now reiterated as a bastion of military excellence, is responsible for forging officers who carry in them the fundamental values of integrity and loyalty to the nation.
### Honor: a fundamental value to revalue
In his speech, the VPM has referred to cardinal values which should impregnate each new officer: honor, fidelity, respect for laws and the fight against corruption. At a time when military scandals and abuses are frequent, it is of paramount importance to recall this need for integrity. Indeed, according to a study by the Global Corruption Index in 2022, the Congolese army is often pointed out for deviant behavior. This message of moralization must not only be a priority, but also become a standard of behavior within the FARDC.
### A historical heritage and an economic future
The historical context of conflicts in the DRC, marked by multiple rebellions and external interventions, underlines the importance of a well -trained army to ensure national stability. The Kananga Academy, since its creation in 1969, has trained generations of officers who contributed to the shaping of the country’s military identity. In parallel, the army has an economic development potential; By stabilizing the country’s regions, it can create the conditions necessary for the attraction of foreign investments. The development of road infrastructure, for example, is often hampered by insecurity. A solid military body can potentially offer a proactive solution to this problem.
### An evaluation of capacities and resources
Although part of the solution lies in training, the other critical aspect concerns financial commitments and technological resources. The DRC, rich in minerals and natural resources, must maximize its potential to provide its armed forces with modern equipment and adequate logistical support. The figures speak for themselves: the DRC ranks among the countries with a lower defense budget in Africa, and this insufficiency affects its ability to defend itself effectively. The DRC military budget in 2023 was estimated at around $ 500 million, while neighbors like Uganda and Kenya devote more than $ 2 billion each to their armies respectively.
### to a synergy with civilian
Finally, it is imperative that the newly trained soldiers understand their role not only as warriors, but also as Guardians of Development and Peace. An active commitment with local communities to promote security, human rights and the protection of property and persons is part of the constitutional missions of FARDC. Global history shows that the most effective armies are those that weigh solid partnerships with the population. Thus, community initiatives and a constant dialogue can enrich the national security panorama.
### Conclusion
The swearing-based performance ceremony for new second lieutenants is much more than a simple symbolic ritual; It embodies the struggle of a country for its sovereignty and its territorial integrity. Through training, commitment to noble values and an alliance with the people, the DRC wishes to turn the page on conflicts to embrace a future made of peace and progress. To carry out this collective ambition, concrete measures, both in terms of training and in terms of resources, are necessary. Such an approach could well give a deep meaning to the idea of serving, and guarantee that the fatherland can really count on those who, today, take an oath to defend its interests, its honor and its future.