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Dr. Denis Mukwege, Nobel Peace Prize 2018, made a diplomatic visit to Congo-Brazzaville to discuss the fight against sexual violence in the DRC. He called for regional partnership and international mobilization to end this tragedy. His presidential candidacy in the DRC enjoys massive support from the Congolese, who see in him a hope for change and justice. This visit reinforces the importance of acting collectively to protect victims and promote gender equality.
Eastern DRC is a region often faced with insecurity, with the presence of armed groups and terrorist movements. To improve security, the Congolese President proposes to coordinate regional forces under the Congolese Armed Forces. This coordination would allow for better planning and execution of operations, as well as better communication and cooperation between the forces. However, there are challenges to overcome, such as ensuring smooth communication and mutual trust, as well as effective institutional coordination. Despite these challenges, the coordination of regional forces is essential to strengthen security in eastern DRC.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) celebrated its 63rd anniversary of independence in a climate of insecurity and sadness. President Félix Tshisekedi denounced the aggression perpetrated by Rwanda and affirmed the country’s determination to defend its territorial integrity. Despite these challenges, the president hailed the rise of the Congolese armed forces and called for strengthening the country’s defense and security capacities. A national prayer of thanksgiving was organized to thank God and symbolize the government’s will to build a better future. The celebration of DRC independence remains a symbol of resilience and pride for the Congolese people.
The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has decided to extend the state of siege in the provinces of Ituri and North Kivu, in order to ensure the safety of the populations living in these regions affected by conflict and violence. This decision was unanimously approved by the members of the Government during a meeting of the restricted Council of Ministers chaired by the Prime Minister. The extension of the state of siege aims to establish conditions conducive to the return of peace, stabilization of the region and socio-economic development. This measure testifies to the commitment of the Congolese State to ensure the security and stability of the country.
Summary :
The unjustified arrest of journalists in Kinshasa in the DRC has aroused great indignation. On June 28, 2023, three journalists were brutally arrested and detained while reporting. The African Press Freedom Observatory condemned this act and called for exemplary sanctions against those responsible. This arrest constitutes a flagrant violation of press freedom and endangers the work of journalists in the country. It is crucial that measures be taken to protect media freedom in the DRC.
The security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) presents persistent challenges in the west of the country, as Martha Pobee, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, recently pointed out. The provinces of Mai-Ndombe, Kwilu, Kwango and the province of Maluku in Kinshasa face ongoing violence that directly affects the local population. It is essential that the authorities take steps to strengthen security and hold accountable those responsible for the violence. In addition, it is crucial to promote social cohesion, fostering inclusive dialogue and resolving community tensions. Restricted civic space and human rights concerns are also major issues. It is important to fight against all forms of discrimination and violence, in particular against women leaders and political activists. As the elections approach in December 2023, it is essential to create an environment conducive to a transparent and fair electoral process, by promoting a peaceful, tolerant and inclusive civic space. Authorities, civil society and political actors must work together to overcome these challenges and ensure a safer and more prosperous DRC for all its citizens.
In a joint operation, Congolese and Ugandan armed forces inflicted heavy casualties on ADF rebel fighters in the Mwalika Valley in North Kivu in the DRC. Two ADF fighters were killed in an ambush and weapons were recovered. Several recent operations bear witness to the intensification of the efforts of the FARDC-UPDF coalition to neutralize armed groups. Despite these successes, we must continue to fight against insecurity with a comprehensive approach combining military action, development and political solutions. The people of Beni are waiting for the end of insecurity and the restoration of peace. The victory in the Mwalika Valley is an important step, but there is still work to be done for a lasting peace in the North Kivu region.
The European tour of the President of CONATC in the DRC, His Majesty MFUMU DIFIMA NTINU, was a success. His participation in the ICC roundtable strengthened international support for peace in the DRC. He also met the Belgian, Dutch and Spanish Royalties to consolidate the links between the African ancestral power and these monarchies. Exchanges with African ambassadors in Paris have strengthened diplomatic relations. Back in the DRC, His Majesty expressed his support for the Head of State in his efforts to restore peace. A meeting in New York is scheduled to discuss the security situation in the DRC. This tour helped promote peace and strengthen international relations in favor of the DRC.
The second conference on “Country risk, prospects for positive improvement” will be held in Kinshasa to discuss the challenges and opportunities of investing in the DRC. The debates will focus on key themes such as the business climate, macroeconomic performance, public finance management, the soundness of the financial system and socio-political risks. The conference aims to foster the contribution of all development actors to create an environment conducive to the country’s economic growth.