The UN Assistant-Secretary General and Deputy Executive Director of UNFPA, took partin the national forum of traditional and religious leaders to end gender-based violence (GBV) which was held on November 3rd and 4th, 2022 in Lubumbashi. At the opening ceremony, she congratulated the Congolese government for its commitment to end GBV.
In her speech, Dr. Diene Keita reminded the audience that 42% of the cases of GBV recorded in 2021 in the DRC concerned people under 18 years of age. These figures are alarming and highlight the barriers that prevent millions of girls and women from exercising their fundamental rights and making choices that influence the quality of their lives, as well as from reaching their full potential.
The United Nations Population Fund, in accordance with its mandate, reiterates its commitment to support the government of the DRC in its efforts to implement the zero tolerance policy against violence.
Furthermore, she insisted that "Early marriage is among the most unjust human rights violations. Everyone is called to fight this scourge". During this forum, the deputy executive director had several interactions with these leaders who decided to get involved in the fight against GBV.
The governor of the Haut Katanga province, Mr. Jacques KYABULA, opened the forum on behalf of the Prime Minister. More than 171 leaders, including traditional chiefs and religious leaders, took part in this meeting against gender-based violence in the DRC. This forum aimed at mobilizing the potential of traditional and religious leaders to fight against GBV in the DRC.
At the end of the meeting, traditional and religious leaders adopted and signed a declaration showing their commitment to the fight against GBV.
