MWE Correspondent
The Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Judith Suminwa Tuluka, has called on the international community to pay closer attention to the suffering of women and girls in the country’s conflict-affected eastern region, warning that continued violence is devastating entire communities.
Speaking during events marking International Women’s Day in New York City, Tuluka emphasized that the humanitarian crisis unfolding in eastern Congo must not be ignored. She urged governments, humanitarian organizations and global leaders to intensify efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable civilians, particularly women and young girls who face the brunt of violence in areas affected by armed conflict.
Addressing an international audience, the Congolese leader highlighted that years of fighting between government forces and armed groups in eastern Congo have created a severe humanitarian situation. In many communities, women and girls are exposed to displacement, sexual violence, and the loss of basic services such as healthcare and education.
Tuluka stressed that while International Women’s Day is often celebrated as a moment to recognize progress in gender equality, it should also serve as a reminder of the urgent challenges still facing women in conflict zones. She said the experiences of women in eastern Congo demonstrate how war continues to undermine human dignity and social stability.
According to humanitarian organizations, eastern Congo has long been one of the world’s most complex conflict regions. The presence of multiple armed groups competing for territory and resources has fueled cycles of violence, leaving millions of civilians displaced. Women and children are often the most affected, facing both physical danger and economic hardship.
Tuluka called for stronger international cooperation to address the crisis, including increased humanitarian support, stronger protection for civilians and renewed diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region. She also emphasized the importance of ensuring that survivors of violence receive justice and access to psychological and medical support.
The prime minister noted that Congolese women continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience despite the hardships they face. Many have taken leadership roles in community organizations, humanitarian efforts and peacebuilding initiatives aimed at restoring stability in their regions.
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“Women in eastern Congo are not only victims of conflict,” she said during the gathering. “They are also leaders, caregivers and agents of change who are helping rebuild their communities despite immense challenges.”
International observers attending the event echoed her concerns, emphasizing that the global community must remain committed to addressing gender-based violence in conflict zones. Several speakers also highlighted the importance of empowering women in peace processes, noting that inclusive dialogue is often essential for achieving sustainable stability.
Tuluka concluded her remarks by urging global leaders to transform solidarity into meaningful action. She said the voices of women and girls in eastern Congo must be heard and their safety guaranteed if lasting peace is to be achieved.
Her appeal comes at a time when humanitarian agencies continue to warn about worsening conditions in parts of eastern Congo, where ongoing fighting has intensified displacement and deepened the humanitarian crisis. As the world marks International Women’s Day, Tuluka’s message served as a powerful reminder that the struggle for women’s rights remains deeply connected to the pursuit of peace and justice in conflict-affected regions.
