DR Congo Appoints First Female Prime Minister, Judith Tuluka

President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has appointed the country’s first-ever female prime minister, Judith Suminwa Tuluka. An economist by profession, she succeeds Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde following Tshisekedi’s re-election on December 20.

Suminwa Tuluka, who previously served as planning minister, expressed her acknowledgement of the immense responsibility bestowed upon her during a televised address. She affirmed her commitment to working towards peace and development, aiming to ensure that the Congolese people benefit from the country’s resources.

Tshisekedi secured his victory with 73 percent of the vote in the December election, which was largely peaceful despite opposition criticism. Parties supporting him obtained over 90 percent of the parliamentary seats, providing a conducive legislative environment for his administration.

The new prime minister will focus on advancing the president’s priorities, including youth and women empowerment, as well as fostering national cohesion in the diverse nation of approximately 100 million people.

Tshisekedi assumed the presidency in 2019 with promises to improve living conditions and end decades of conflict in the resource-rich yet impoverished country. However, challenges persist, with an estimated seven million people internally displaced due to conflict, particularly in the eastern regions.

The security situation in North Kivu province has deteriorated, with the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, seizing significant territory. Additionally, the DRC faces a health crisis exacerbated by various factors, including violence, climate shocks, displacement, poverty, and malnutrition.

In response to these challenges, the World Health Organisation has called for urgent funding to address the escalating health crisis. Meanwhile, the withdrawal of UN troops, initiated at the end of February at the DRC government’s request, is set to be completed by the year’s end.