The article summarizes the news of May 12, 2023 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It begins by announcing a call for tenders for the construction of a hangar and continues by giving information on various events in the DRC. Topics discussed include health problems caused by the management of septic tanks, proposed dowry laws, online disinformation, progress for democracy, army operations to restore order in cities and the humanitarian crisis in the east of the country. The article ends by mentioning President Felix Tshisekedi’s initiative for economic partnerships with Botswana.
This article warns of the health risks incurred in the neighborhoods of Kinshasa, following the overflow of septic tanks which spill into the streets during the rainy season. As households do not have the financial means to carry out effective emptying, the flow of infected water continues to threaten the health of citizens and pollute the environment. The authorities should open discussions with neighborhood associations to consider collective and sustainable management of these infrastructures. Residents are also called upon to become more involved in improving their living environment.
The proposed law to set the dowry at $500 and limit the engagement period to less than one year is not welcomed by all women in Kinshasa. Some believe that the minimum sum should be $1500, others believe that the negotiation should be between the two families. Regarding the one-year limit for engagement, several young women oppose this proposal, pointing out that it can lead to a haste in the commitment. However, other young women believe that this proposal can contribute to reducing consensual unions in the DRC. It is therefore important to listen to all opinions and take into account the realities of the populations concerned in order to adapt social and family reforms.
The Deputy Minister of Primary, Secondary and Technical Education of the Democratic Republic of Congo took to Twitter to put an end to rumors that she was pregnant. She called for respect for her privacy and asked politicians to focus on political debates rather than trying to smear her reputation. This smear campaign targeted Congolese women politicians and other women in positions of power and underscores the need for cultural change in the DRC, where women in positions of power are often subject to gender bias, discrimination and of violence.
The Independent National Electoral Commission of the Democratic Republic of Congo (CENI) succeeded in identifying and registering voters in just four months, which was praised by the Electoral Integrity and Mediation Mission. The latter also encouraged the CENI to follow a transparent approach by launching a call for tenders for an external audit of the electoral register. The audit will take place from May 15 to 20 and will be conducted by a mixed mission of national and international experts. The mission also called on stakeholders to support the CENI in its actions, while ensuring that the latter remains independent according to the constitution of the Republic. This good news is an encouragement for the holding of free, fair and transparent elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The government of Sama Lukonde in the Democratic Republic of Congo has announced that it is launching large-scale operations to restore state authority and deal with bandits and land disputes in three cities: Kinshasa, Kwamouth and Kisangani. These regions are experiencing growing instability and are the scene of violent clashes between communities, including the conflict between the Mbole and Lengola tribes and that between the Teke and Yaka tribes. It is hoped that these operations will help protect the populations and improve the living conditions of the inhabitants of these areas.
The article highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where the M23 war has resulted in large numbers of displaced people living in precarious conditions in camps such as Bulengo. Epidemics of cholera and measles are frequent there, with women and children being the most affected. NGOs such as Médecins Sans Frontières provide medical aid to the population. It is urgent that the Congolese authorities improve infrastructure and take preventive measures for the management of drinking water and infectious diseases. Increased international attention and support are needed to protect war-affected populations forced to flee their homes.
The security crisis in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is worsening following a crisis of confidence between local actors. President Félix Tshisekedi is challenging the EAC by getting closer to the SADC and wants to “revitalize” the Monusco Force Intervention Brigade (FIB). Congo-Brazzaville helps by providing electricity to Kinshasa. Reforms and the fight against corruption will be crucial for the DRC in the face of these challenges.
The proposed law to revise the family code in the Democratic Republic of Congo, dealing with dowry, engagement and polygamy, has sparked heated debate. The bill would set the dowry at $500, which drew mixed reactions. Some hail the measure as necessary to fight against depravity and excesses. However, others fear that the arbitrary fixing of the dowry removes an important element from the marriage process. Indeed, the dowry is often the subject of discussions and symbolic meetings between two families, which reinforce the cohesion and the transmission of our cultural heritage. Members must therefore take care to preserve the beauty of our customs while ensuring their evolution for the general well-being of society.
The famous Samy Mikobi, nicknamed “The Strategist”, has died, leaving his Congolese showbiz friends in turmoil and in pain. Samy Mikobi, originally from Bandalungwa, was a public man and friend of musicians. He was known for his acceptance and his ability to evolve in influential circles and to play his relationships. Since 1990, he worked with the Rodalls in a structure whose center of interest is customs, named Socodam and housed in the ACP building. Samy Mikobi was in the backyard of Honorary Prime Minister and current Vice-President of the Senate, Samy Badibanga and was very close to Papa Wemba. His professional life was marked by great feats of arms and he was always available to help. Her slim, well-filed waist in no way represented her efficiency and ability to succeed with any business.