Violence against women and girls is a serious violation of human rights and a major obstacle to development. Aware of the scale of this scourge, the Congolese government, under the leadership of President Denis Sassou-Nguesso, has implemented a national strategy to combat gender-based violence, with particular attention paid to the most vulnerable populations.
A strengthened legal framework to protect victims
In recent years, the Republic of Congo has adopted increasingly protective legal instruments. The law on combating violence against women, passed in 2019, was a major step forward. It criminalizes domestic violence, sexual harassment, female genital mutilation, and forced marriage, and provides for enhanced criminal penalties.
However, the legislative path is not enough. The government has therefore deployed enforcement mechanisms on the ground. Listening and victim support units have been opened in hospitals and police stations in major cities, notably in Brazzaville, Pointe-Noire, and departmental capitals.
Targeted programs for vulnerable groups
Vulnerable populations – rural women, internally displaced persons, refugees, those living with disabilities, or from indigenous communities – are particularly exposed to violence. For them, the government has developed specific programs.
As part of the “Lisungi” program, thousands of vulnerable women have benefited not only from cash transfers but also from psychosocial and legal support. To date, 25,934 women have received payments via mobile money platforms, and among them, thousands have been made aware of their rights and protection mechanisms against violence.
In the Likouala department, home to significant indigenous communities, awareness campaigns were conducted in partnership with civil society organizations. 71,000 people gained access to free healthcare, and training on women’s rights was provided in remote villages.
The Role of Women as Agents of Change
Beyond protection, the national strategy focuses on women’s empowerment. Grants from the “Lisungi” program have enabled over 95,000 people, mostly women, to create their own micro-enterprises. This economic independence is the best defense against violence: a woman who earns her own living can more easily leave an abusive partner and support herself.
“Before, I depended on my husband for everything,” says a beneficiary of the program in Brazzaville. “Today, I have my own little shop. I no longer have to endure his humiliations. I know I can leave if I want to.”
A Consistent Presidential Commitment
This policy for protecting women against violence aligns with the vision of President Denis Sassou-Nguesso, who has made gender promotion a national priority. In 2008, the Head of State had already established the Ministry for the Promotion of Women and the Integration of Women in Development, demonstrating his long-standing commitment.
In his speeches, the president has consistently emphasized that “sustainable development depends on equal opportunities between men and women.” The concrete measures taken under his leadership – protective laws, economic empowerment programs, support centers, community awareness campaigns – translate this conviction into tangible actions.
Persistent Challenges but a Committed Momentum
Admittedly, the path is long. Mindsets evolve slowly, and gender-based violence is still too often silenced or trivialized. But the momentum is underway, driven by strong political will and increased resources. Every woman who dares to speak, every victim supported, every perpetrator convicted is a victory.
Congo, under the leadership of its President, is resolutely advancing towards a more just and equal society, where every woman, wherever she lives, regardless of her origin or social status, can live free from violence and in dignity.