Denise Nyakeru Urges Congolese to Sign GENOCOST Recognition Petition

First Lady Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi has called on Congolese citizens at home and across the diaspora to sign and share a petition seeking recognition of the genocides committed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

She made the appeal in a message delivered on Sunday, August 2, 2026, as the country observed the National Day of Tribute to victims of conflict-related sexual violence and victims of crimes against peace and the security of humanity, commonly known as GENOCOST.

The annual commemoration gives the nation an opportunity to honour the victims of decades of violence while strengthening the campaign for truth, justice, reparations and non-repetition. XTRAfrica’s August 2 GENOCOST explainer provides more background on the meaning of the national remembrance day and Congo’s continuing demand for recognition.

A message of remembrance and solidarity

Denise Nyakeru began by honouring the memory of all victims and paying tribute to the people who provided assistance when survivors needed it most.

She described August 2 as a call to the national conscience, reminding citizens that the pain caused by conflict can mark families and pass from one generation to another.

Behind every silence, she said, is a human story still waiting to be acknowledged. That suffering can be seen in the lives of children, in the courage of women and in the continuing struggle of survivors.

Speaking as a woman, a mother, First Lady and Global Champion for the Prevention of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence, she offered survivors a clear message of solidarity: “We see you, we hear you.”

She reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that their suffering is not forgotten, arguing that preserving memory is essential to discouraging impunity and preventing future atrocities.

Every signature can become a voice