Fatshimetrie, November 4, 2024. – The fight against domestic violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains an undeniable emergency, as recently highlighted by civil society organizations (CSOs), calling for collective action and general awareness.
In a recent column, Sophie Kasanga, coordinator of the NGO “Bomoko”, launched an urgent call to raise awareness among the population, particularly young boys and men, to counter the worrying rise in domestic violence. She stressed the importance of concrete actions aimed at informing about the consequences of this violence, thus emphasizing the need for profound changes in Congolese society.
One of the essential proposals put forward to combat this scourge is the strengthening of the capacities of police units specialized in the protection of women and children. It is crucial that these units, currently operational in the east of the country, be extended to the entire national territory. In addition, the revision of the penal code to specifically include domestic violence and the finalization of the national strategy to combat gender-based violence are essential measures to break the cycle of violence.
Raising public awareness and training judicial police officers are key aspects of this fight. It is also essential that the State allocate adequate resources for the implementation of the national strategy to combat gender-based violence. Finally, the creation of secure reception centers for survivors of domestic violence is another essential measure that must be taken into consideration.
It is imperative that the entire Congolese society, from authorities to citizens, from civil society organizations to institutions, engage in concerted and determined action to end domestic violence. The words of these organizations are a call for general mobilization, a reminder that violence cannot be tolerated, and that concrete measures must be taken to guarantee the safety and well-being of all.
The fight against domestic violence in the DRC is a daily struggle, a battle for equality, respect and dignity. It is time to act, to unite and make the voices of those who suffer in silence heard. The road is long, but every small step counts in the march towards a safer and more just future for all.
In the fight against domestic violence, unity is our strength, awareness our weapon, and justice our goal. Together, we can make a difference and build a future where everyone can live without fear and in complete freedom.
Fatshimetrie remains mobilized to raise awareness and fight these injustices, with the conviction that every voice counts, every action counts, and that only together we can create lasting and meaningful change.