**Peacebuilding through cross-border trade in the Great Lakes region: a new paradigm for a prosperous and peaceful future**
Peacebuilding is a major challenge in regions plagued by political and economic conflicts, such as the Great Lakes region in Africa. It is in this turbulent context that the innovative project “Mupaka shamba letu” is being launched, which aims to promote peace through cross-border trade between the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Burundi.
Launched at a workshop in Goma, this initiative has generated strong recommendations from local authorities and stakeholders. The Deputy Governor of the province, Jean-Romual Ekuka Lipopo, stressed the importance of seeking and consolidating peace, thus offering a new perspective on how to establish stability in a region shaken by centuries-old conflicts.
The “Mupaka shamba letu” project has a unique dimension in promoting peace through the cross-border trade sector. Indeed, beyond the economic aspect, it constitutes a real lever to strengthen social cohesion between communities and promote peaceful and sustainable regional integration.
The second phase of this innovative project aims to consolidate the achievements of the first phase by strengthening the capacities of cross-border traders and introducing concepts such as “business for peace” and the promotion of gender equality. These actions hold promise for a more just and balanced society, where economic development is accompanied by sustainable peace.
In a context where political conflicts are mixed with economic issues, cross-border trade appears to be a strategic means to restore peace and promote harmonious development. By creating strong links between local actors and promoting fair trade, this project paves the way for a more prosperous and serene future for the populations of the Great Lakes.
In conclusion, peacebuilding through cross-border trade in the Great Lakes region represents a new paradigm for a better future. With its focus on promoting peace through economics, this ambitious project opens up endless possibilities for a region long scarred by conflict. It embodies the hope for a deep and lasting transformation, where prosperity and stability go hand in hand for the well-being of all.