Interviews – en

KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of the Congo, July 25 (UNHCR) – A doctor by profession, Professor Mashako Mamba served as Minister of Health in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) from 1999-2003. Currently a member of the National Assembly, he has played an important role in efforts to restore peace to his troubled homeland. Mamba took part in peace talks that led to the signing in January of a peace accord – the so-called Acts of Engagement – between the government and rival armed groups in the eastern provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu. He is currently deputy coordinator of the Amani Programme, a mixed technical commission on peace and security operating in the two Kivus, Maniema, Orientale and Katanga provinces. He spoke recently to UNHCR External Relations Officer Francesca Fontanini about the situation in the east and efforts to secure lasting peace.

International Peacekeepers Day is celebrated each year on 29 May. This year MONUC Force commander General Babacar Gaye spoke on the evolution of the United Nations Blue Helmets, and the challenges for the future. Interview

As conflict continues to flare in Democratic Republic of the Congo, the
rape of women and young girls has long been used as a tactic by militia
to force villagers from their homes and tear down the social fabric of
the community. The sexual attacks taking place in the eastern region of
this war-torn country cannot be classified as merely rape. It's far more
savage, says Dr. Denis Mukwege, head of the Catholic Relief
Services-supported Panzi Hospital in Bukavu. Oftentimes the reproductive
organs of these women are completely destroyed, leading to serious
health
problems. Frequently, the rapists infect the women with HIV. The
psychological impact is immeasurable.