** National Day of Revolution and Armed Forces: a moment of reflection for the Democratic Republic of Congo **
Each May 17, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) celebrates its national day of the Revolution and the Armed Forces, a significant event which takes a double meaning: a tribute to the efforts of the Congolese soldiers and a commemoration of the sacrifices made by those who fought for the defense of the nation. On this occasion, the reflections on the reality of the armed forces and the challenges they face are of crucial importance.
The word has been given to several Congolese citizens, whose testimonies highlight the mixed feelings that cross this commemorative day. Christian Badibangi, lawyer, indicates that this date symbolizes not only the importance of a loyal and united army, but also the sacrifice required by the protection and sovereignty of a country. His declaration raises the fundamental question of a strong army means for the Congolese state and, even more, for society as a whole.
However, behind the celebration speeches emerges a worrying reality, indicated by a large number of citizens, including young people and education professionals. Prince Kadjuka, a student at Ista, evokes with a certain desolation the condition of the injured soldiers, often visible in the streets, in search of help. An observation shared by Lilianne Kitambala, who underlines the absence of medical and psycho-social care for these soldiers who nevertheless risked their lives for the fatherland. This reality raises essential questions: how can we really recognize the sacrifice of these soldiers while offering them adequate support? What public policies could be created to overcome these shortcomings?
The testimony of GLODI MUBANDA, professor at the Bakadja Institute, resonates as a call for action. It highlights the need to improve the living conditions of the military by concrete measures, such as decent wages, worthy housing and access to modern equipment. Nevertheless, this also implies a broader reflection on the organization and management of the army, as well as on the budgetary priorities of the State.
Beyond material considerations, Christian Badibangi also evokes a social imperative: the need for social security for the military as well as for their families. The proposal for an annuity for the families of soldiers to the front or in cantonment could, if it was implemented, offer a feeling of security to these families often left behind. This type of support also raises a question about the commitment of citizens to the army. How can they work for better supervision of these services and participate in the valuation of military careers?
These reflections also raise the question of the perception of the armed forces by Congolese society. The respect and dignity granted to members of the army are often questioned. According to Badibangi, a culture of denunciation of abuses and enhancement of enrollment in the army could help build a positive image of the armed forces, which are sometimes perceived negatively due to isolated incidents. This dynamic is based on a collective commitment, where citizens are called upon to support not only the military institution, but also the men and women who serve it.
Ultimately, the national day of the revolution and the armed forces must not be confined to a simple commemoration. It is a call for reflection, action and, above all, to the sincere evaluation of the living and working conditions of the Congolese soldiers. The challenges of social recognition, material well-being and efforts for the adequate psychological supervision of the military imprint this debate of a need for action. An interrogation remains: how can the DRC build a real partnership between the army and civil society, in order to ensure that the sacrifice of its soldiers is not forgotten, but valued in fact? This path to better recognition and real support requires tangible measures, and above all, a shared desire to work for the common good.