Kinshasa – In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the journey toward peace is increasingly influenced by the remarkable resilience and insight of women.
This powerful sentiment set the framework for the strategic retreat of the Women’s Advisory Group on Security Sector Reform (SSR) held on 17 June 2026.
With the motivating theme “From participation to influence,” and with the backing of MONUSCO’s Security Sector Reform (SSR) Section, the participants reaffirmed a crucial principle: women are not merely recipients of security policies, but essential players in fostering sustainable and inclusive peace.
Ely Dieng, Coordinator of the Rule of Law and Security Institutions Division and Acting Deputy Special Representative at MONUSCO, highlighted that this perspective is fundamentally about the effectiveness of institutions.
“Integrating women into security sector reform is not just about promoting equality; it also entails building more legitimate and accountable institutions that resonate with the community,” Dieng stated.
The aim of this engagement is unmistakable: to empower the women of the Advisory Group with critical tools to transform challenging field experiences and early warnings into clear and actionable policy recommendations for senior decision-makers.
The aim of this engagement is unmistakable: to empower the women of the Advisory Group with critical tools to transform challenging field experiences and early warnings into clear and actionable policy recommendations for senior decision-makers.
The purpose of this program is evident: to equip the women of the Advisory Group with the resources necessary to turn tough field realities and early alerts into practical and effective policy proposals for high-level authorities.
Enhancing Skills to Influence Decisions
This retreat was not just a series of speeches; it was carefully crafted to be highly practical.
The second day, 18 June, was dedicated entirely to enhancing the participants’ technical skills.
The sessions included advanced mediation techniques, multi-stakeholder dialogue, and strategic analysis.
The mission of this workshop is clear: to empower the women of the Advisory Group with the proficiency to interpret challenging field conditions and early warnings into actionable policy recommendations for senior decision-makers.
Déborah Nyamugabo, a member of Synergie pour la Paix, aptly captured this vision.
“Wherever women are present, humanism thrives,” Nyamugabo said.
“The advisory group strives to evaluate future possibilities, understand what works, what doesn’t, and identify opportunities for enhancement.
“Thus, it is vital to focus on refining current reforms and institutional frameworks while empowering women active within the security sector.”
A Roadmap for the Nation’s Future
Is security truly just a domain for men in uniform?
This prejudice was swiftly challenged by Colonel Nénette Mukembe, a former battalion commander in the FARDC Land Forces, who asserted: “Security is not just a concern for soldiers or police; it is an issue that impacts everyone.”
In light of the humanitarian and security crises plaguing the country, the need for action is immediate.
Ms. Faida Mwangilwa, Coordinator of the Women’s Advisory Group on SSR, called for urgent action.
“We acknowledge the many difficulties women have faced in recent years,” Mwangilwa remarked.
“However, this is the moment to face these challenges and discover how we can find effective solutions for our security, the welfare of our children, and the future of our nation.”
By the end of the third and final day of reflection, an important step toward meaningful transformation was made.
The participants formally outlined their engagement priorities and formulated a strategic roadmap.
This foundational document will act as a guiding compass for their future efforts, ensuring that the voices of Congolese women remain influential in shaping the country’s primary security strategies.
Thanks to this retreat in Kinshasa, the Women’s Advisory Group on SSR is no longer merely an observer; it has established itself as a vital, influential force for stability in the DRC.
