During a meeting in Kinshasa, authorities from the Ministry of Gender invited Congolese women to demonstrate responsible behavior on the occasion of the International Women's Day (IWD) this Friday, March 8.

The Director of Cabinet for the Minister of Gender, Mr. Jean d'Arc Kyalu explained: "We have encouraged both political and social women to show responsible attitudes on March 8."

According to Mr. Jean d’Arc Kyalu, the concern of the Minister of Gender is that this day be celebrated differently and responsibly this year. Because, he maintained, we are in a situation of mourning which signifies revolt. "As long as there is war, there will be no empowerment of women. That's why on that day, we must show our armed forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) that we stand behind them and sympathize with their situation."

As for herself, the Secretary General at the Ministry of Gender, Family, and Child, Mrs. Esther Kamuanya noted: "We will exhibit a mourning attitude in support and compassion for our brothers and sisters from the East and the FARDC who fight day and night to restore peace in that part of the country."

She also spoke on this year's national theme, pointing out that the ministry had justified this choice by taking into account the reality of what is happening in the east of the country. The Minister of Gender had recalled that last February 15, she launched a call for donations to prove "our solidarity towards our brothers from the East who are suffering."

Boni Tsala