From the outset, the Head of State paid tribute to the memory of the Fathers of Independence, Joseph Kasa-Vubu and Patrice Emery Lumumba, as well as all freedom fighters, known or anonymous. He reminded that June 30 is not just a date, but "a memory, a promise, and a responsibility" for every generation.

The wounded East, top priority

President Tshisekedi extensively discussed the dramatic situation in the east of the country, affected by aggression, armed violence, forced displacements, and economic predation. He sent a message of support to the populations of North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri, Tanganyika, and Maniema, reaffirming that their security is an "absolute priority" of his actions.

He paid tribute to the Armed Forces, the National Police, and the Wazalendo resistors, while reiterating the country's commitment to diplomacy. But he was very clear: the peace sought must be a just peace, one that respects borders, restores state authority, punishes crimes, and makes natural resources a lever for development, not a fuel for war.

A "solutions country" recognized on the world stage

The president emphasized the change in perception of the DRC, now seen as a "solutions country" thanks to its critical minerals (cobalt, copper, coltan, lithium). He stressed the need to locally process these resources to create jobs and move away from the logic of raw extraction and exportation.

In response to the resurgence of Ebola in Ituri, he announced a 319 million dollar response plan and called for collective vigilance.

Referring to the political debates on constitutional revision, he ruled out any resort to violence and confirmed having referred the referendum law to the Constitutional Court, in respect of the institutions.

The Spirit of the Leopards: A Lesson in Unity and Pride

The Head of State concluded his speech by paying tribute to the national football team, the Leopards, for their historic qualification for the knockout stage of the World Cup. He praised their victory against Uzbekistan as a symbol of discipline, courage, and national unity.

The spirit of the Leopards must inspire the entire Nation: stay united, defend our colors, believe in our strengths, and fight, each in their place, for the honor and greatness of the Republic."

A call for a patriotic awakening

Finally, the president made a passionate call to build a sovereign Congo in terms of security, economy, digital, and diplomacy. He invited every Congolese – teacher, soldier, doctor, civil servant, entrepreneur, parent, diaspora – to take part in building a peaceful, modern, and prosperous country for future generations.

This Congo will not be built through resignation, division, or passive waiting. It will be built through work, discipline, unity, integrity, and a patriotic awakening."

He concluded by wishing everyone a happy Independence Day and invoking divine blessings on the Republic.

The full version of the speech is attached, and the video of the address is also available.