Kinshasa Conference Launches DRC Chapter of IAPP
- Jul 4
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 27
Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo – UPF’s work in the DRC took an important step forward with the official launch of the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace on July 4, 2026. The inaugural conference, organized by UPF-Africa, UPF-DRC and the National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, was held at the People’s Palace in Kinshasa, with approximately 200 participants, including senior parliamentary leaders, members of Parliament, UPF representatives, ambassadors for peace, youth leaders and distinguished guests.
The DRC continues to face significant challenges related to peace, security, national cohesion and sustainable development. In this context, strengthening parliamentary diplomacy and promoting cooperation across political parties are essential for preventing conflict and fostering reconciliation.
Dr. Michael Jenkins, global coordinator of IAPP, delivered the opening message, emphasizing the global mission of IAPP and the important role parliamentarians play in building peaceful and prosperous societies. The official opening address was delivered by H.E. Aimé Boji Sangara, president of the National Assembly, who welcomed the participants and highlighted Parliament's responsibility to promote peace, national unity, democratic governance and social justice.
Dr. Paterne Zinsou presented the conference theme and explained the vision and mission of IAPP as a global platform that promotes parliamentary diplomacy, conflict prevention, interfaith cooperation, family values and sustainable development.
One of the strongest messages of the conference was that lasting peace cannot be the responsibility of government alone. It requires the participation of parliamentarians, families, religious communities, civil society, educators, young people and citizens.
Four foundational principles were highlighted to guide the work of IAPP-DRC:
Political neutrality: Serving peace beyond party affiliation and ideological division
Love and dialogue: Building cooperation through respect, trust and constructive engagement
Respect for religions: Recognizing the contribution of faith communities to reconciliation and social harmony
Strengthening the family: Promoting the family as a foundation for responsible citizenship, moral education and a culture of peace
The conference included a video message of congratulations from former US Congressman Dan Burton, global chairman of IAPP, followed by the reading of the Manifesto for Non-Violence and Peace by a youth leader and the investiture of new ambassadors for peace.
National Assembly President H.E. Aimé Boji Sangara and Senate President H.E. Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde Kyenge were both appointed to the Regional Consultative Council of IAPP-Africa and recognized as honorary co-chairs of IAPP-DRC. Hon. Isaac Jean-Claude Tshilumbayi Musawu, first vice president of the National Assembly, was appointed president of the National Executive Bureau of IAPP-DRC.
The ceremonial presentation of the IAPP flag symbolized the responsibility entrusted to parliamentary leaders to advance dialogue, cooperation and parliamentary diplomacy in service to the Congolese people.
The conference concluded with the signing of the IAPP-DRC Resolution, reaffirming the commitment of parliamentary leaders to peace, dialogue, unity, ethical leadership and sustainable human development.
