Rich Harwood’s approach, based on community dialogue, is relevant, but it must be adapted to the specific context of the DRC. Unlike more stable Western countries, the DRC, particularly in the East where I live, has been grappling with over 30 years of conflict and insecurity. Past resolution attempts, often led by authorities in partnership with external actors, have shown their limits. Many agreements and mediations have failed because they did not address the population’s fundamental demand for peace and security. Although these agreements theoretically prioritize peace, their implementation is often compromised by economic or political interests that override the real needs of citizens.
The idea of engaging in community conversations is good and has already been tried. However, its implementation in the DRC faces major challenges that require adapting the approach:
-Insecurity and Fear: The presence of armed groups and a widespread mistrust of state forces prevent citizens from expressing themselves freely. Any gathering is potentially perceived as a threat or an act of rebellion.
-Widespread Mistrust: Decades of conflict have fueled deep mistrust among communities and towards authorities, making the reconstruction of civic trust particularly difficult.
-Instrumentalization: Community initiatives risk being manipulated by various actors to serve their own interests, which compromises the integrity and authenticity of the process.
Personally, as a citizen, I am actively involved in this process. I am a mentor /volunteer within the organization AYLF (African Youth Leadership Forum), which aims to train a new generation of African leaders. Through conferences and workshops, I encourage young people to engage meaningfully in the life of their country. It is crucial to act within the limits of one’s status and with caution, while being aware that the country’s situation is also influenced by broader power dynamics.
Charmante Katungu (DRC)
NextGen Women Leaders Fellow 2025