My name is Hedere Iyonda isako. I was born in Congo, a land that is full of wealth but where the people live in poverty. Since I was young, I saw things that broke my heart. I saw children working in the mines when they should have been in school. I saw mothers crying because their sons were taken by soldiers. I saw how corruption became normal and how truth was buried in fear.
My heart is not with the rich and powerful. My heart is with those who suffer every day. Mon cœur est avec le peuple qui souffre which means my heart is with the people who suffer. I write because I cannot stay quiet. I write because our people deserve peace and justice. I write because every child in Congo deserves to live with hope.
I believe in truth. La vérité ne meurt jamais which means the truth never dies. Even when they try to hide it, truth will rise again. Through APARECO, the Alliance of Patriots for the Refoundation of Congo, where I serve as Deputy Secretary of Youth Mobilisation, I work to wake up our youth. I want young people to know that Congo belongs to them, not to those who steal from it.
I have seen how power changes people. I have seen how leaders forget where they came from. But I also believe in the courage of ordinary men and women who still stand for what is right. I believe in the power of words and the power of truth.
Every article I write comes from my heart. It is my way to speak for those who are silenced. Congo mérite mieux which means Congo deserves better. And until that better day comes, I will keep speaking, I will keep writing, and I will keep fighting for my country and my people.
