It is essential to stress that the situation of displaced people is a major issue that requires special attention from the international community. The Swedish Ambassador to the DRC, Joachim Vaverka, highlighted an often overlooked aspect: displaced people are not simply passive victims, but individuals with resources and talents who can contribute to their own empowerment.
Indeed, the testimonies collected by Joachim Vaverka from displaced people in Rusayo near Goma highlight the resilience and strength of these people despite the hardships they are going through. Women show a willingness to learn trades to become self-sufficient, while young people exude an impressive energy that is just waiting to be channelled into concrete opportunities.
It is crucial to recognise that each individual, regardless of their displaced status, has skills, aspirations and resources that can be mobilised to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their community. It is up to the international community, institutions and governments to create an environment conducive to the development of these talents, by providing training, employment, and promoting access to education and health services.
The needs of the displaced are varied and numerous, and it is essential to establish priorities in terms of humanitarian aid in order to respond effectively and in a targeted manner to their most pressing needs. This requires a holistic approach that takes into account not only material needs, but also the aspirations and capacities of the displaced to take charge of themselves and become actors in their own development.
Ultimately, Joachim Vaverka’s visit to the Rusayo displaced persons site highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the skills and resources of the displaced, and of placing them at the heart of solidarity and assistance actions. By working together to create opportunities and spaces for empowerment, we can help build a better future for all, where every individual, no matter their background, can find their place and thrive.