On Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the Maison de France in Kinshasa, an exceptional ceremony was held celebrating the actors committed to a more equitable, inclusive and humane world of work. Organized by CUSO International, in partnership with the Embassy of Canada, the Embassy of Sweden and the Talents Pluriels program, this evening highlighted 23 pioneering structures in the integration of the principles of Gender, Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
A well-deserved recognition for SODEFOR
Among the companies distinguished, SODEFOR received a certificate of honor in recognition of its concrete commitment to the adoption of inclusive HR policies. This recognition is the culmination of several months of work, training and internal reforms aimed at:
1. Train HR teams in GESI standards
2. Implement policies to prevent sexual harassment
3. Promoting access to employment for marginalized youth
This certificate testifies to SODEFOR's desire to build a respectful, equitable professional environment that is open to all diversities.
Strong voices for inclusion
During the ceremony, Mrs. Faïda Mwangilwa, facilitator of the workshops, recalled that "Human resources policies give guarantees". A strong message that resonates after 40 days of training and intensive support.
Mrs. Chantal Yelu Mulop, Advisor to the Head of State, also stressed:
"Social inclusion is a machine of equity, of justice, a lever of moral rearmament for the community. We can only build society by holding hands."
A further milestone in SODEFOR's commitment
The integration of the principles of gender, equity and social inclusion is part of SODEFOR's long-standing commitments. Thanks to the support of the Talents Pluriels program led by CUSO International, this approach has been better structured, strengthened and above all made visible to institutional partners. The awarding of this certificate thus recognises the discreet but constant work carried out with conviction within the company.
This moment marks an encouraging step in SODEFOR's transformation journey, and confirms its desire to build a fairer, more human professional environment that is open to all diversities.
