** The sub-representation of women in Kasai Central: a reality to be questioned **
On May 23, 2025, an exchange session in Kananga highlighted a persistent and complex problem: the under-representation of women in decision-making positions in Central Kasai, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). With only 8.64 % of women occupying strategic positions, this observation raises important questions about socio-cultural dynamics and structural constraints that slow down gender equality in this region.
Nathalie Kambala, focal point of the movement “Nothing without women”, underlined the magnitude of this situation, observing that, although women can access important positions, they often do it in the context of interim or without real decision -making power. This reality leads to questioning: what are the real barriers that hinder women’s access to positions of responsibility in Central Kasai?
** Cultural weights and stereotypes: a heavy goods vehicle to wear **
The persistence of gender stereotypes and cultural pressures represents a major obstacle to the emancipation of women in this context. In many societies, including those of central Kasai, traditional gender roles continue to influence the perception of women’s capacities and rights. This behavioral dynamic makes women’s access to decision -making bodies not only difficult, but the very perception of their legitimacy to sit is often questioned.
It is essential to recognize that these stereotypes are not frozen. They can evolve through education, increased awareness and initiatives to promote gender equality. The programs that aim to educate both women and men on their respective rights are crucial. How can local authorities and civil society organizations collaborate to transform these anchored perceptions in order to accelerate women’s access to decision-making posts?
** Education and empowerment: Keys to transformation **
Another factor mentioned by Nathalie Kambala is the level of education. Poverty and illiteracy are significant barriers that weaken the position of women. In an environment where families often favor the education of sons, girls find themselves relegated to the background, which strengthens the cycle of economic and social dependence. The question here is: how to encourage families to invest in the education of young girls as a social and economic imperative?
Economic empowerment is also a powerful lever. The creation of employment opportunities for women in the formal sector, but also in the involvement of women in entrepreneurship, could promote a change in mentalities. By offering women the economic capacity to project themselves into leading roles, we can potentially see an increase in their participation in decision -making bodies.
** A glimmer of hope: the commitment of the stakeholders **
The growing support of political, religious and civil society actors, as Nathalie Kambala points out, gives a glimmer of hope. The signing of commitment acts to facilitate the appointment and election of women is a significant advance. However, this commitment must be more than just a formality. It must be accompanied by concrete and measurable actions aimed at strengthening the capacities of women to reach these positions. This includes training in public speaking, the management of leadership business and skills.
** towards sustainable equity: a collective duty **
At a time when countries aspire to sustainable development objectives, it becomes imperative to adopt an approach that is not satisfied with figures, but which really seeks to transform the living conditions of women. Women’s access to decision -making positions is not a gift, but a fundamental right that benefits the whole of society.
Finally, the question arises: what concrete strategies could be implemented to overcome existing barriers and ensure a fair representation of women in central Kasai? The answers to this question will require an inclusive dialogue and a collective will to break these cycles of exclusion. It is through this approach that we can consider a future where women of the DRC take full place in decision -making bodies.