Courage and solidarity: The gold miners of Nyankunde

Radio Télé Evangile Réconciliation (RTER) is located in Nyankunde, in the province of Ituri, in eastern Congo. In September 2002, the Nyankunde Medical Center suffered one of the worst massacres of the Ituri conflict. Over a period of 10 days, Germain Katanga's Ngiti fighters, later known as the FRPI, killed at least 12,000 people in Nyankunde and the surrounding area. The concept of reconciliation promoted by Jean Luc Simbilyabo's radio station is not overused. Very recently, he shared with us this masterful example of "integral radio," which we are pleased to share with you here.

The quest for gold and its challenges

The history of Radio Télé Evangile Réconciliation (RTER Nyankunde) is closely linked to that of the gold miners. These courageous gold seekers, despite difficult conditions, work tirelessly to improve their lives and those of their communities, demonstrating exemplary solidarity and resilience.

Every day, men and women set out in search of gold in remote areas, armed with rudimentary tools and unwavering determination. Without modern equipment, their task is difficult and their productivity limited. Nevertheless, they persevere, not only to provide for their families, but also to support local projects, including our radio station.

Radio as a pillar of the community

Their story is remarkable, particularly because of their financial support for our station, despite their low incomes. They recognize the importance of local media in giving the community a voice, informing, educating, and uniting people. This support allows us to maintain and expand our programming, thereby linking their work to the development of the region.

In return, our radio station offers specific programs to help gold miners, informing them about resource management, best practices in health and safety, and their rights. The radio station provides them with a platform for expression and exchange, strengthening solidarity and promoting collective solutions. The effects are visible: gold miners now see their profession as an opportunity for transformation.

A future filled with hope

However, gold miners face major challenges, including limited access to medical care and protective equipment. Children suffer from malnutrition and premature deaths are common. Despite these hardships, they aspire to a better future.

Local authorities' support for artisanal gold mining offers an alternative to young people who are often tempted to join armed groups. In eastern DRC, this activity represents tangible hope for thousands of families.

With better support, gold miners could increase their production and positive impact on the community, transforming their lives and strengthening local projects such as our radio station. Their courage and determination, with the right support, pave the way for a future where everyone contributes to collective development, building a better world for future generations.

Jean Luc Simbilyabo, director of Radio Télé Évangile et Réconciliation in Nyankunde, during the first training seminar held in Lomé in 2019.