As the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) national football team prepares to face Ivory Coast in the semifinals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), their journey in the tournament has become more than just a sporting spectacle.Against a backdrop of conflict and unrest in their homeland, DRC players are leveraging their social platforms to advocate for peace and an end to the ongoing war.The DRC team’s remarkable performance in the AFCON has captured the attention of fans worldwide, but for the players, the tournament represents more than just athletic achievement. It’s an opportunity to amplify their voices and shine a spotlight on the dire situation back home.The conflict in the DRC, particularly in regions like Goma, has been marked by violence, displacement, and humanitarian crisis. Various armed groups, including the M23 rebels, have been involved in clashes with government forces, exacerbating the suffering of civilians and destabilizing the region.Trois décennies déjà que des millions de congolais sont injustement tués sous le regard silencieux du monde. Désormais, le peuple congolais et des citoyens du monde se lèvent et se mettent aux côtés des congolaises et congolais victimes afin de les rassurer qu’ils ne seront… pic.twitter.com/AKg3jktgVL— Fonarev RDC (@FonarevRDC) February 5, 2024 AFCON 2023: Old Leopard Mbemba and energetic Wissa break Naby Keita’s heart in AbidjanIn a powerful display of solidarity and advocacy, several DRC players have taken to social media to call for peace and an end to the war. Among them are Chancel Mbemba, Gedeon Kalulu, Arthur Masuaku, Fiston Mayele, and others. Their tweets serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict and the urgent need for resolution.Chancel Mbemba, a key member for the DRC team, tweeted: “A very big thought for all the victims of the atrocities in Goma and their families. I pray with all my heart that my country regains its peace.” Une très grosse pensée pour toutes les victimes des atrocités de Goma et à leurs familles. Je prie de tout mon cœur que mon pays retrouve sa paix. 🇨🇩❤️ pic.twitter.com/zLpAjaTjXE— Chancel Mbemba (@mbemba22) February 5, 2024 Gedeon Kalulu, another influential figure in the squad, echoed similar sentiments by tweeting; “I am Goma, I am Congolese, We want peace.” Je suis Goma 💔Je suis congolais 🇨🇩🙌🏾Nous voulons la paix 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/aKCJ2GEZTy— Gedeon Kalulu (@gedeon_K2) February 5, 2024 Arthur Masuaku, known for his skillful play on the field, highlighted the importance of unity in achieving peace: “Peace for the DRC. The world sees what is happening in Eastern Congo but nothing changes, everyone is silent. With my foundation I modestly try to make myself useful locally but it will never be enough.” Paix pour la RDC 🇨🇩Le monde voit ce qui se passe à l’Est du Congo mais rien ne change, tout le monde se tait.Avec ma Fondation j’essaie modestement de me rendre utile sur place mais ce ne sera jamais assez.Priez, partagez, agissez pour nos frères et soeurs 🙏🏾— Cédric Bakambu (@Bakambu17) February 5, 2024 Former Yanga striker Fiston Mayele added his voice too, saying; “Life has no prices 💔🇨🇩💔God help our brothers.” La vie n a pas des prix 💔🇨🇩💔nzambe sunga ba ndeko na biso pic.twitter.com/St8BSzW1cl— Fiston Mayele (@fistonmayele9) February 5, 2024 As DRC gears up for a crucial match on the football field, its players carry with them the hopes and aspirations of a nation longing for peace. Beyond the outcome of the game, their message resonates far and wide, reminding us all of the power of sportsmanship, unity, and the universal desire for a better tomorrow.AFCON 2023 – SemifinalsWednesday20:00: (1.65) Nigeria (3.50) S.Africa (6.25)23:00: (2.20) Ivory Coast (3.15) Dr Congo (3.60)***odds are subject to change***
