Presenter at Radio Okapi, operated by the UN

    Core area “Peaceful and inclusive societies” Strengthening resilience, fostering dialogue and reconciliation, preventing new conflicts

    The eastern provinces of the DR Congo, North Kivu, South Kivu and Ituri, are repeatedly affected by massive violent conflicts. The state is hardly able to deliver key tasks in these regions – for example, protecting the people, in particular women and children, from (sexual) violence and ensuring security and safety, and maintaining law, infrastructure and basic services. Germany is supporting an International Security and Stabilization Support Strategy (ISSSS) which promotes the peaceful political dialogue in municipalities and the creation of sustainable livelihoods.

    The purpose of Germany's activities is to first quickly improve the living conditions of the people and to then engage in targeted activities that enhance resilience so that basic services and peaceful development can be ensured in the long term.

    The BMZ programme Support to Peace and Stability in Eastern Congo is pooling measures in the areas of food security, health care, development of social and economic infrastructure, and skills, training and employment. In addition, the work of civil society organisations in Eastern Congo is being promoted so as to enable people to help themselves. Selected non-governmental organisations are receiving advisory and financial support to develop peacebuilding approaches, establish networks and increase their reach. Support is provided in areas such as violence prevention, women’s rights and peace journalism.

    The BMZ also supports the Panzi Foundation (External link) of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Denis Mukwege. It is dedicated to preventing sexual and gender-specific violence and offers victims legal advice and support. Rape has been – and is still – used widely and systematically as a weapon of war in the DR Congo to intimidate communities and destroy social structures.


    As at: 19/07/2023