Bishop Calls on Congolese Youth to Foster Peace Amid Ongoing Violence

The Catholic bishop of the Kivu region, Bishop Jean‑Claude Ndayikengurukiye, appealed to young people in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to become “artisans of peace” during a ceremony in Goma on Saturday. He urged the youth to reject armed groups, promote dialogue, and help rebuild communities shattered by conflict. The bishop highlighted the importance of education, vocational training and religious values in steering young Congolese away from recruitment by militias.

The appeal comes as insecurity persists in the provinces of North, South and Ituri Kivu, where armed factions, including remnants of the M23 rebel movement and various local militias, continue to clash with the national army. Since 2012, the region has experienced repeated cycles of violence, displacement of civilians and human‑rights abuses, contributing to a humanitarian crisis affecting millions. International peacekeeping forces under the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DR Congo (MONUSCO) remain deployed, but attacks on civilians and infrastructure have not ceased.

In his speech, Bishop Ndayikengurukiye also called on government authorities and civil society to provide more opportunities for employment and skills development, arguing that economic prospects are essential to deter youth from joining armed groups. He thanked humanitarian organisations for their support and urged continued collaboration to restore stability.

The bishop’s message reflects broader efforts by religious leaders and NGOs to engage communities in peacebuilding, seeking to address the root causes of conflict and promote long‑term reconciliation.