DRC Signs Memorandum to Institutionalize Gender Equality

Kinshasa, March 8, 2026 - The Democratic Republic of Congo has taken a major step toward gender equality with the signing of a memorandum of understanding aimed at structuring and institutionalizing parity. The ceremony followed a workshop organized on March 6 by the Ministry of Gender, in collaboration with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES), to validate the implementing decree of Law No. 15/013 of 2015 on women's rights and gender parity. The initiative seeks to strengthen inclusive governance, promote networking among women, and enhance female leadership. The signing was attended by the Ambassador of Germany to the DRC, Ingo Herbert, and representatives of Congolese women’s associations. Minister of Gender, Chantal Ombae, highlighted the significance of the agreement: “This paradigm shift means moving from symbolic representation to women’s decision-making participation; from political discourse to the structural implementation of parity. Together with civil society, we are building concrete mechanisms to strengthen governance and accelerate the achievement of SDG 5.” She added that the partnership complements government efforts to build a more just and egalitarian society, amplifying the voices of women and children, “not as an option, but as a necessity for progress.” During the ceremony, Minister Ombae also inaugurated the headquarters of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, emphasizing its role as a space for dialogue, cooperation, and empowerment. The Foundation’s representative, Constantin Grund, said: “By inaugurating this building on the eve of International Women's Day, we are sending a symbolic message: spaces for dialogue must be open to everyone, particularly women. We hope this will be a place for debates, inspiration, and partnerships that promote justice, equality, and democracy.”