Kinshasa Youth Take Center Stage in Peacebuilding Initiative, Championing UN Resolution 2250
KINSHASA, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO – In a resounding demonstration of youth engagement in peacebuilding, approximately one hundred young people from Kinshasa, including thirty-seven women, converged on June 14th to participate in a series of activities designed to foster peace, enhance security, and combat the pervasive threat of disinformation. This landmark event, supported by the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO)’s Civil Affairs Section, in collaboration with the National Technical Secretariat for Resolution 2250 and civil society organizations, marked the culmination of a year-long process initiated in 2022 to implement the groundbreaking UN Security Council Resolution 2250. This resolution, adopted in 2015, recognizes the pivotal role of youth in peacebuilding and conflict prevention, urging member states to actively involve them in these crucial processes.
The Kinshasa gathering served as a platform for young people to voice their perspectives, share their innovative ideas, and contribute meaningfully to the pursuit of peace in the DRC. The event resonated with the call to action issued by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Bintou Keita, who urged all MONUSCO sections to intensify their efforts in promoting and implementing Resolution 2250. This directive underscores the UN’s unwavering commitment to empowering youth and harnessing their potential as agents of positive change in conflict-affected regions. By providing a space for young voices to be heard, the initiative not only acknowledged the often-overlooked perspectives of youth but also fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility amongst the younger generation in shaping a peaceful future for their country.
Central to the discussions was the critical link between economic empowerment and lasting peace. Participants emphasized the urgent need for job creation as a crucial strategy for preventing young people from being lured into armed groups. Recognizing the importance of equipping youth with practical skills to navigate the challenging economic landscape, the initiative incorporated a coaching component designed to empower participants to develop sustainable projects. This hands-on approach aimed to translate ideas into tangible action, providing young entrepreneurs with the tools and resources they need to build successful ventures and contribute to their communities’ economic growth. Furthermore, the initiative reported that several project proposals developed during the workshops are already being considered for funding, demonstrating the tangible impact of the program in fostering youth entrepreneurship.
The National Technical Secretariat for Resolution 2250 played a vital role in ensuring the initiative’s success by promoting proximity-based and inclusive approaches. Recognizing that genuine youth participation requires more than just technical guidance, the Secretariat emphasized the importance of coordination and collaboration. By working closely with local communities and stakeholders, they aimed to create an environment where young people from diverse backgrounds feel empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and experiences. This inclusive approach ensured that the initiative reflected the needs and aspirations of a broad cross-section of Kinshasa’s youth, fostering a sense of shared ownership and responsibility for the peacebuilding process.
The resounding success of the initiative was evident in the positive feedback received from participants. Young people expressed their appreciation for being given a platform to voice their concerns and contribute to a critical issue where their perspectives are often marginalized. Acacia, a young participant, shared her enthusiasm, stating, "As a young person, I felt heard. There’s support and follow-up, which motivates me. Too often, youth are unfairly associated with misconduct." This sentiment reflects the empowering impact of creating spaces where young people feel valued and respected, enabling them to actively participate in shaping their future.
The initiative also inspired artists and creatives to use their talents to promote peace and combat disinformation. Musician and writer Antonio Lufyaulusu expressed his newfound motivation, stating, "We were shown how to verify online information. It made me want to launch awareness projects in my community." This highlights the ripple effect of the initiative, empowering young people to become agents of change within their own communities. By equipping them with media literacy skills, the program fosters critical thinking and empowers them to counteract the spread of misinformation, a crucial step in building a more informed and resilient society. The initiative stands as a testament to MONUSCO’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the role of young people in the DRC’s peacebuilding efforts. By amplifying their voices, providing them with practical skills, and fostering long-term engagement, the initiative lays the groundwork for a more peaceful and prosperous future for the country.