Kinshasa, August 16th, 2026 (CPA). – The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen the woman’s economic empowerment and to combat the gender-based violence (GBV) during the closing ceremony of the commemorative events for International African Women’s Day on Saturday in Kinshasa.
“The government reaffirms its commitment to strengthen the woman’s economic empowerment and to combat all forms of GBV in accordance with the law,” has declared Eve Bazaiba, Minister of State in charge of Social Affairs. Speaking on behalf of the Prime Minister, Ms Bazaiba has explained that it is essential to promote women’s participation at all levels of decision-making bodies, in line with the vision of the Head of State, a champion of positive masculinity. “No development is possible in Africa or anywhere in the world without African women. Investing in initiatives led by African women means investing in peace, in education and in the future of our nation as well as that of our continent,” she has affirmed. The Prime Minister’s representative has called on the women to remain committed to peace in Africa, particularly in DRC, and to continue working to promote and protect the rights of African women.
“The Congolese women and girls are the pillars of our families. The strength of our communities is the driving force behind our economy, our households, (…) and in all institutions, everywhere else, you carry the Congo forward with courage,” she has said. “Women, you carry DRC forward with dignity and determination, despite the challenges. You remain devoted despite the unjust war imposed on us by the enemies of peace. You continue to tend to the wounds, to educate and to rebuild,” she has added.
The Minister in charge of Foreign Affairs has urged the women to continue bringing smiles, comfort and hope for a better tomorrow to all peoples. “May this day not be an end in itself, but rather the beginning of concrete and new actions. It is with these words of hope and gratitude, on behalf of Her Excellency the Prime Minister and Head of Government, that I declare the activities dedicated to JIFA closed,” she has concluded. The fortnight-long JIFA 2026 celebrations were held under the theme: “African women, rights, justice, actions for inclusive and sustainable development”. In DRC, the national theme is: “Guaranteed rights, sustainable empowerment for all women and girls in the Democratic Republic of the Congo”. ACP/