The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) made history on Monday as Judith Suminwa Tuluka became the nation’s first female prime minister, announced by state television.
Tuluka, an economist, assumes the role of prime minister succeeding Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, following President Felix Tshisekedi’s re-election on December 20.
In her address on national television, Tuluka acknowledged the enormity of the task ahead, stating, “the challenges are immense but together… we will get there.”
Expressing awareness of her significant responsibility, she emphasized her commitment to working for peace, development, and ensuring that the Congolese people benefit from the country’s resources.
President Tshisekedi’s re-election with 73.47 percent of the vote marked a significant political milestone in a country plagued by violence and instability.
Although the opposition denounced the election as fraudulent, parties supporting Tshisekedi secured over 90 percent of parliamentary seats, providing a favorable legislative environment for his priorities of employment, youth, women, and national cohesion.
Tshisekedi, who assumed office in 2019 with promises to improve living conditions and end decades of conflict, campaigned for a second term on achievements such as free primary medication.
However, challenges persist, with approximately seven million people internally displaced by conflict and a deteriorating health crisis exacerbated by violence, climate shocks, displacement, poverty, and malnutrition.
The security situation in North Kivu province has worsened, with the resurgence of the M23 rebellion seizing swathes of territory.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization has raised concerns over the prevalence of diseases such as cholera, measles, pox, anthrax, and plague, calling for urgent funding to address the health crisis.
As Tuluka assumes the role of prime minister, she faces the daunting task of navigating these challenges while working towards fulfilling President Tshisekedi’s vision for a prosperous and peaceful DR Congo.
