Kinshasa, July 2nd, 2025 (CPA). – An appeal was made to women in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to preserve African values and the virtues of Congolese culture through their attire during a discussion on Wednesday in Kinshasa.
« Clothing is not just a matter of fashion, it is a silent language. I call on women to preserve African values and the virtues of Congolese culture through their attire, » said Djenny Djweya, pastor of the Evangelical Church Fire Devouring (EEFD).
« Modernity should not be synonymous with loss of identity. What you wear speaks for you, even in your absence. We must teach our daughters that beauty is not about exposing oneself, but about inspiring respect, » she added, before encouraging women to wear traditional outfits that have been revisited, modern but modest, which highlight their femininity while respecting the principles of modesty, elegance and dignity.
She also called on fashion designers, influencers and parents to play an active role in transmitting positive clothing values that are adapted to African realities. Pastor Djweya expressed concern about the rise of nudity in women’s clothing, often influenced by foreign trends conveyed by social media, urban music and certain fashion figures. According to her, these styles contribute to the erosion of cultural norms and affect society’s perception of women. « This is not a fight against fashion, but for the values and virtues of our culture. It is possible to be modern without baring oneself, to be elegant without offending. Modesty is a strength, not a weakness, » she said, calling on parents, educators, stylists and religious leaders to be role models and guides. Ms Djwele called for schools, churches and the media to participate in clothing education aligned with African values of respect, dignity and decency. ‘Our grandmothers had fewer resources, but more value in their clothing. They have left us a noble culture, and it is up to us today to carry it forward as a torch, not a burden,’ she said. « This appeal is a strong reminder to all African women to preserve their dignity. It is also a way of honoring one’s roots. In a world undergoing cultural change, elegance in modesty remains an act of cultural and spiritual resistance, » she added. In a modern context marked by external influences, it is essential to remind women of the importance of preserving the dignity and value of their bodies. The female body is not an object, but a sacred space, a bearer of life and culture. Self-respect comes through awareness of one’s identity and heritage. Preserving one’s body is an affirmation of one’s strength, dignity and role in society.