The devastating link between conflict, poverty, and the socio-economic struggles of Congolese women in the DRC's Eastern region
 

Authors:

J Mangwanda and M Mangwanda
 

Summary: 

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is located in the heart of Africa and has a population of over 90 million. The country is endowed with an abundance of natural resources which have for decades attracted conflict and war. To date, provinces such as North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri, and Maniema (situated in the eastern region of the country) continue to be ravaged by instability and unrest as a result of the proliferation of armed groups and the illicit exploitation and demand for natural resources. There is an undeniable link between ongoing conflict and the socio-economic challenges faced by women in eastern DRC that result in perpetual poverty, famine and malnutrition, and unemployment, despite the provisions of the Congolese Constitution that recognises useful socio-economic rights for all. This article explores the intrinsic link between conflict and poverty, and the resulting socio-economic consequences experienced by Congolese women. These include limited access to education, food insecurity, inadequate healthcare, and restricted economic independence. It also examines the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war and its devastating impact on women. It argues that conflict and poverty are mutually reinforcing, particularly in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where prolonged conflict has created a persistent cycle of poverty. The absence of peace renders sustainable development unattainable, and meaningful change will only occur through concerted efforts to end the exploitation of the country’s natural resources.

Link to book chapter