Kinshasa, October 21st, 2026 (CPA). – Parties to the conflict have been urged to prioritise national cohesion and peaceful means of resolving disputes, at the close on Wednesday in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, of the National Forum on Women’s Contributions to Peace Initiatives in DRC.
“We are deeply concerned about the direction the conflict in DRC is taking, the escalation of violence and the on-going suffering of the population. We call on those involved in the conflicts to prioritise national cohesion and peaceful means to resolve these conflicts,” Julienne Lusenge, focal point for the Women’s Synergy for Peace and Security (SFPS) has declared. “Beyond our organisational, political, ethnic, religious and regional affiliations, we speak with one voice in favour of a just, inclusive and lasting peace. We reiterate that no lasting peace can be built without the protection of civilians, respect for human rights, justice and the effective participation of women in decisions that shape the country’s future,” she has added. This social activist has called on the authorities to strengthen support for survivors of violence and to facilitate access to humanitarian aid in the face of violence, forced displacement and precarious living conditions.
“We call on the national authorities and the parties to the conflict to protect civilians, combat impunity, facilitate access to humanitarian aid and strengthen support for survivors of violence,” she has said, before calling for the dignified return and reintegration of displaced persons in safe conditions. Ms Lusenge has urged all parties to prioritise de-escalation, restraint, diplomacy and mediation, and to honour their commitments to a cessation of hostilities.
“We call on national, regional and international actors to step up their efforts to prevent the escalation of conflicts and to promote solidarity, dialogue and national cohesion,” she has urged. Given the gravity of the situation, Ms Lusenge has emphasised the urgent need for an inclusive, credible national dialogue aimed at finding concrete solutions to the root causes of the conflicts, stating that this dialogue must enable the various sections of the nation to voice their concerns, contribute to decision-making and develop sustainable responses.