Everyone is talking about the Democratic Republic of the Congo today, its historic qualification for the World Cup after 52 years, the beauty of the team’s outfits, and the warm welcome they received in Houston, Texas. Like many others, I am incredibly proud of my fellow Congolese and grateful to everyone who is supporting and celebrating them.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is a vast and beautiful nation, rich in culture and diversity, with more than 450 languages and dialects spoken across the country. Despite our differences, people traditionally lived together in peace, unity, and mutual respect.

One of the strongest memories from my childhood was the way strangers were treated. When a traveler arrived in a village, they would be warmly welcomed, offered food and water, given a place to bathe and sleep, and, when it was time to continue their journey, someone would accompany them to ensure they arrived safely. This is the Congo I knew. This is the Congo in which I grew up.

Sadly, things began to change following the tragic events that unfolded in Rwanda in the 1990s. As neighbors, we welcomed refugees into our communities, sharing what little we had with them. We opened our homes and our hearts, never imagining that our region would soon become the centre of one of the world’s longest and deadliest humanitarian crises.

For more than three decades, Eastern D.R. Congo has endured relentless violence, armed conflict, displacement, and insecurity. Millions of innocent civilians have suffered the consequences of wars fueled by political interests, ethnic tensions, and competition over the region’s vast natural resources. Entire communities have been destroyed. Families have been separated. Children have grown up knowing only conflict and uncertainty.

It is estimated that millions of Congolese have lost their lives as a result of the violence, disease, and humanitarian crises linked to these conflicts. Today, countless families remain displaced, living in camps or seeking refuge far from their homes. Women and children continue to bear the heaviest burden of the suffering. Many communities lack access to adequate healthcare, education, clean water, and basic security.

As the world celebrates Congo’s achievements and admires the elegance of our culture and attire, I hope we will also remember the painful reality that many Congolese continue to face every day. Behind the smiles, the celebrations, and the colorful fabrics are people who have endured unimaginable hardship for more than 30 years.

During my recent visit to Eastern D.R. Congo, including the region where the headquarters of our organization, Baraka Victory Centre, is located, I witnessed firsthand the struggles of the people. I met families trying to rebuild their lives, children dreaming of a better future, and communities displaying remarkable resilience despite overwhelming challenges.

The people of Congo need more than admiration they need solidarity, compassion, and support. They need the world to see not only their beauty and strength but also their pain and their hope for a peaceful future.

Please keep the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo in your thoughts and prayers. Celebrate their achievements, but do not forget their story. More stories coming soon…