As digital censorship concerns cloud DR Congo’s crucial election, elsewhere in Francophone Africa, internet shutdowns also threaten livelihoods and democracy

French-speaking African countries often disrupt internet access during elections and political crises, impacting democracy and economic development. The Democratic Republic of Congo, facing general elections on 20 December, has a history of internet shutdowns, raising concerns among citizens and organizations. Internet shutdowns violate international law and carry significant economic costs, with DR Congo's 2018 shutdown resulting in a $61.4 million loss. Initiatives like the DRC's Digital Code, Netblocks, and the #KeepItOn coalition are combating these shutdowns. The media, journalists, and activists play a vital role in informing the public and advocating for digital rights.

No, President Félix Tshisekedi did not receive the specimen of the national identity card

A widely shared Facebook post falsely claims that the Democratic Republic of the Congo has begun issuing national identity cards, starting with President Félix Tshisekedi. Congo Check debunks this misinformation, confirming with sources including the president's deputy spokesperson and the Office National d’Identification de la Population (ONIP) that no such cards have been issued. ONIP is still awaiting government funding to commence the identity card issuance process.

Digital blockades in Francophone Africa, a threat to democracy and a brake on the labor market

Internet blockades in Francophone Africa, particularly during elections or political crises, threaten democracy and hinder economic and social development. Governments in countries like Gabon, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have restricted internet access, citing security concerns, but critics argue these actions suppress opposition and limit freedom of expression. The economic impact is significant, with internet disruptions costing Africa over $2.16 billion between 2015 and 2017. Organizations like the United Nations, CIPESA, and Amnesty International advocate for uninterrupted internet access, highlighting its importance for democracy, economic growth, and social services. Activists and journalists play a crucial role in raising awareness and documenting these blockades.

Domestic workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo are campaigning for better working conditions

Domestic workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo, often working without formal contracts and facing exploitation, are campaigning for better working conditions through the Union des Femmes Domestiques du Congo (UFEDOC). The organization, founded by former domestic workers, aims to reduce exploitation and ensure sustainable development by advocating for the ratification of ILO Convention 189. The article highlights the challenges faced by domestic workers, including lack of legal protection, unpaid overtime, and withheld wages, and underscores the importance of formalizing their employment to protect their rights.

The art of slam poetry as a form of expression, a weapon of peace and a tool for advocacy in DR Congo, Burundi and Madagascar

The article discusses the rise of slam poetry in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Madagascar as a form of cultural expression and political activism. In Goma, DRC, the Goma Slam Session collective, founded by Ben Kamuntu and friends in 2017, provides a platform for artists to assert their rights and challenge societal norms. The collective holds weekly sessions and monthly public events, addressing issues like gender equality, social justice, and human dignity. The article also highlights the Slam at School programme, which educates students on poetry and various social issues, supported by the Italian NGO VIS. In Burundi, the Jewe Slam collective uses slam to reflect on the daily lives of Burundians, while in Madagascar, slam artist Caylah uses her work to empower women and address social issues. The article also touches on the political engagement of slammers, including Kamuntu's involvement with the Lucha movement and his slam piece 'Bosembo', which calls for justice for crimes in the DRC.

The art of slam poetry as a form of expression, a weapon of peace and a tool for advocacy in DR Congo, Burundi and Madagascar

Slam poetry is a powerful tool for expression and advocacy in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Madagascar, providing a platform for artists to address social justice, gender equality, and human rights. The Goma Slam Session collective in DR Congo, Jewe Slam in Burundi, and artists like Caylah in Madagascar use slam poetry to challenge societal norms and promote free expression. These initiatives empower young people, foster critical thinking, and advocate for change, with support from organizations like Volontariato Internazionale per lo Sviluppo. The movement is intertwined with activism, as seen in Ben Kamuntu's work with Lucha and his call for justice in the DRC.

No, Chinese experts did not question the existence of COVID-19 in the DRC

The article debunks claims circulating on social media that Chinese experts questioned the existence of COVID-19 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It highlights the collaboration between Chinese experts and Congolese authorities, with both parties refuting the misinformation. Officials from the DRC and the Chinese Embassy in the DRC provide statements to clarify that no such report was sent to the DRC president, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to combat the pandemic.

Factcheck: The Minister of EPST did not declare a blank year in the DRC due to Covid-19

False information circulating on social media claimed that Willy Bakonga, the Minister of Primary, Secondary, and Technical Education (EPST) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, declared the 2019-2020 academic year a 'blank year' due to Covid-19. Congo Check contacted Carine Kabututu, the ministry's communication officer, who refuted these claims and confirmed that preparations for reopening schools are underway. The article also notes that similar false claims about higher education institutions were debunked.