Kinshasa, March 22nd, 2026 (CPA) – The empowerment of Congolese women has been presented as an essential pillar for the development of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), during the closing ceremony of Women’s Month held Sunday at the Lindonge Pastoral Center in Limete, central Kinshasa. “Empowering a woman is not only about helping her individually; it is about stabilizing an entire nation. The Congolese mother plays a central role in the economic and social balance of the household,” said Sister Diane Odile Lumengo, a Theresian nun of the Child Jesus in Kinshasa.
Speaking before members of the Diocesan Commission for Justice and Peace (CDJP) of the Archdiocese of Kinshasa, Ms. Lumengo highlighted the broader impact of women’s independence. According to her, empowerment should not be confused with isolation, but rather understood as enhanced capacity for action, particularly in the fight against poverty and the protection of the environment.She explained that this process becomes an effective strategy for reducing vulnerability when women gain access to financial resources, training, social protection, and proper recognition of their activities. “We must restore to women their role as coordinators and bearers of life, as they are at the origin of shaping the minds that will lead our nation,” she added.Alongside theoretical discussions, a practical session was organized by the CDJP-Kinshasa leadership. Participants were trained in the production of everyday consumer goods, providing them with concrete tools to strengthen household economies.