Kinshasa, November 13th, 2025 (CPA). – A call for collective commitment by men and women was launched on Thursday to promote equality during a campaign in Mbuji-Mayi, the capital of Kasaï Oriental (central Democratic Republic of the Congo), ahead of International Men’s Day, celebrated on 19 November each year.
« On this “Black Thursday” in the run-up to the celebration of International Men’s Day, the Network of Men Committed to Gender Equality in the DRC (Rheeg-RDC) is calling for a commitment to positive and inclusive masculinity and femininity. Wearing black every Thursday is not just a symbol: it is a concrete act to say no to gender-based violence (GBV) and to promote respect, equality and dignity for all, » said Carlin Vese, national president of Rheeg-DRC.
According to him, adopting positive models of masculinity and femininity helps to strengthen families by promoting relationships based on listening, dialogue and shared responsibility. ‘Positive masculinity and femininity make it possible to build more supportive communities, where everyone can contribute to development without discrimination or violence, and to promote more just and inclusive institutions that are capable of protecting and valuing the rights of all,’ said Mr Vese.
He said that promoting these models enables men and women to become active agents of change, capable of preventing violence, supporting equality and building a society where opportunities are equitable. « For our voices to count, men and women of quality are not afraid of equality. Together, let’s make the “Black Thursday” campaign a daily gesture of commitment and solidarity, » said the national president of Rheeg-DRC, before inviting everyone to share this initiative with those around them. ACP/