SW News: Pope Francis compared the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to a precious diamond, alluding to the rich resources of that nation, and said its people are far more precious than any treasure. He won the hearts of the citizens with these words during his address to members of civil society, diplomatic corps and other dignitaries on the sprawling garden of the Palais de la Nation in Kinshasa on Tuesday evening on the first day of his Apostolic Visit to the country.

The Holy Father then said that he brings to them the “closeness and the affection and the consolation of the entire Catholic Church”, adding that he was in their country “as a pilgrim of reconciliation and peace”. He did not mince words in asking the world to acknowledge the grave injustices committed in the past in Congo and sought an end to the plundering of its natural resources. “Hands off the Democratic Republic of the Congo! Hands off Africa! Stop choking Africa: it is not a mine to be stripped or a terrain to be plundered. May Africa be the protagonist of its own destiny!” the Holy Father said using strong words.

He appealed to the global community not to distance itself from the conflict that is taking place in the DRC. He also urged the Congolese people to avoid regressing to tribalism and hostility that fuel violence. In this regard, religion and civil society have a crucial role to play to build peace and harmony, said the pontiff in the presence of President Felix Tshisekedi and other dignitaries, prelates and members of his entourage.

The Pontiff also highlighted the urgent need to invest funds in education in order to make the young generation shine like diamonds. He bemoaned how many children are not sent to school as they are forced to serve in mines. “Children, young girls and all young people represent hope for the future: let us not allow that hope to be stifled, but instead cultivate it with passion!”

The address of the pope followed the official welcome accorded by the president to the head of the Vatican City State on the patio of the sprawling palace overlooking the Congo River. The Holy Father was accompanied by Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and other key officials of the Holy See and heads of Dicasteries.