Belgium wants to frame its relationship with Congo, Rwanda and Burundi as one looking into the future – but the past weighs heavily.
Democratic Republic of Congo
Politics and Society Patrice Lumumba’s tooth represents plunder, resilience and reparation
All that remains of the political icon is a tooth, but it represents much more than just a human trophy.
Politics and Society DRC’s fallen son Patrice Lumumba returns home
A gold-capped tooth which is all that remains of assassinated Pan-Africanist Patrice Lumumba, has been handover to his family by the Belgium government. After 61 years, the former Prime Minister can finally be laid to rest, and the full breadth of his execution has been laid bare for the world to see.
Politics and Society How Patrice Lumumba’s assassination drove student activism, shaping the Congo’s future
Lumumba’s death triggered students and created a generation of activists that pushed for total liberation from exploitation and oppression.
Africans rising Congolese refugee shows dreams can and do come true
After a journey of struggle and hardship, an asylum seeker whose first job in South Africa was being a car guard is now pursuing his PhD at the University of Pretoria.
Politics and Society Retracing Belgium’s dark past in the Congo, and attempts to forge deeper ties
For relations with the DRC to truly improve, the Belgian state must acknowledge its historical responsibility more strongly.
Politics and Society Note to Colonisers: Relinquish the benefits of your ancestors’ crimes or pay reparations
Belgium’s Princess Esmeralda says the country should “apologize” for colonial atrocities but said: “We are not responsible for our ancestors.” As if she and her country are not directly benefiting from the crimes of her ancestors in the present day.
Politics and Society DRC’s shady political alliance unravels
Tshisekedi is struggling to escape the shackles of a deal gone bad with the DRC’s former president.
Politics and Society For African politicians, fashion could mean more than just dress
From red berets to full-on cosplaying, leaders across the continent have a robust relationship with fashion.