Montréal: The Great Celebration of the 63rd Anniversary of the Independence of the DRC

The commemoration of June 30 took on an unprecedented dimension this year, marked by a collective gathering of the main Congolese organizations operating in Canada. For the first time, several community structures joined forces to honor the anniversary of the independence of the Democratic Republic of Congo, sending a strong signal in favor of cohesion and shared development.

At the heart of the initiative, community leaders emphasize the importance of this joint mobilization. Mr. Longuet, vice-president of the Congolese community of Montreal, insists on the new momentum inspired by this collaboration: working together to strengthen a growing and dynamic community. A vision shared by many participants, particularly young people celebrated for their transition from high school to CEGEP, a symbol of renewal and hope.

Anthonyme Bienla recounts this educational transition with pride, highlighting that the celebration also shed light on the efforts of young people and their desire to engage for future generations. Appreciated speeches, inspiring journeys, and collective recognition helped make the event a unifying moment for families, students, and elders.

Guy Inkalé, president of the Congolese Community Center of Montreal, reminds that unity, work, and organization are the pillars the community wishes to promote. Initiated in January, the preparation of this celebration brought together nearly 400 people, a success he attributes to the shared willingness to build together. He also calls for volunteerism, believing that stronger engagement is essential to reinforce the community’s impact.

Several voices also expressed their sense of identity pride. Moussa Galoussa Tigo, who came to celebrate the 63rd anniversary of independence, sees in this event tangible proof of the unity long sought. Berry Singan Kuni, a Congolese resident in Montreal for 14 years, describes the occasion as a moment of patriotic joy, affirming his deep attachment to the cultural symbols represented in his traditional attire.

Local authorities also commend the spirit of the gathering. Suzanne de la Rochelière, borough councilor of Saint-Léonard, says she is impressed by the maturity and involvement of young people who already wish to contribute to strengthening their community in the years to come. According to her, the growth of the Congolese presence in Canada deserves to be highlighted and celebrated.

Other African partners were invited, demonstrating openness that goes beyond national borders. Representatives from Liberia, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, and Mali took part in the celebration, a sign of solidarity between African communities living in Montreal.

The president of the Congolese Community of Metropolitan Montreal, lawyer Maggie Moujani, recalls that this unity is a historic first. Usually divided among several events, the different structures chose to join forces to create a joint celebration, strengthened by the presence of various African cultural groups. This synergy allowed the spotlight to be placed on education by honoring high school graduates, a powerful gesture against school dropout.

An official message from the Angolan ambassador, Kabongo, was also conveyed by Justin Maternagna, president of the Congolese community of Canada in Montreal. The ambassador encourages Congolese people to work in unity and contribute to the promotion of their country of origin despite the political and social realities faced by the diaspora.

Martine Moussa, president of the Montreal city council, made a point of praising the organizers’ efforts and the importance of this commemoration. According to her, this celebration perfectly reflects the spirit of unity that Congolese leaders have long upheld.

Between historical tribute, educational recognition, cultural expression, and festive celebration, this first reunification of Congolese community forces offers a glimpse of a future built on solidarity and commitment. A milestone that profoundly marks the path of the Congolese diaspora in Canada and opens the way for other large-scale collective projects.