Kalemie, 4 August 2016: Kalemie Public Information section organized a working session with many religious communities’ leaders in Kalemie; in attendance, about fifty participants including 2 ladies. This activity is part of the implementation of the awareness-raising and dissemination program of MONUSCO’s mandate, more particularly the UN Security Council Resolution 2277, and to help partners understand better the work done by MONUSCO in Tanganyika province.

The clarifications provided by the chief of Kalemie office and the heads of MONUSCO substantive sections on the UNSC Resolution 2277, more particularly on the UN Mission’s mandate were applauded by the participants who expressed a high interest in the activities carried out by the Mission in Tanganyika province, especially those relating to civilian protection, the electoral process and support to local authorities as part of the stabilization efforts.

At the end of the session, religious leaders voiced their satisfaction. “We heard a lot about the UNSC Resolution 2277, but never received any explanation, or seen a document explaining the resolution, but today we have received clarifications on the different points addressed by the Resolution,” said a representative of the Lutheran church who also expressed the hope to see MONUSCO continue to accompany the DRC in the area of Justice which, according to him, is not doing well yet. As for the Spiritual Awakening Church leader, he was happy to participate in this meeting and highlighted: “it is a good thing that MONUSCO has associated religious communities to receive explanations on the UNSC Resolution 2277”.  “Now I understand better MONUSCO’s mission” he further said, insisting on the role of facilitator and “ advisor “ to be played by MONUSCO, mainly in the electoral area to avert the risks of violence. 

Aware of their influence, religious leaders pledged to organize debriefing sessions for their church members.

Earlier, a documentary film was projected: “The men and women dedicated to the cause of peace” and a MONUSCO weekly video film  UN Weekly n°18.