Congo/ Brazzaville: launch of VOQUART, a new platform dedicated to the voice of neighborhoods

A new citizens' initiative has been launched in the Congolese capital. Called VOQUART-La Voix des Quartiers, this community action platform aims to support the sustainable transformation of Brazzaville's remote or isolated neighborhoods, and eventually those of other cities in the country.

With a population of almost 2.1 million, 80% of which is concentrated in five major districts (Madibou, Makélékélé, Mfilou, Djiri-Kintélé and Talangaï), the city is facing strong social, economic and territorial pressure. At the heart of these dense urban areas lie numerous neighborhoods often described as "peripheral" or "landlocked": Kielé Tenard, Mpiere-Mpiere, Moutabala, Massina, Kombe, Kibina, Ntsangamani, Madzouna, Makabandilou, Ngamakosso, Simba Pelle, to name but a few.

A voice for local aspirations

Conceived as an inclusive and pragmatic initiative, VOQUART is intended to be a genuine loudspeaker for local residents, a tool enabling each neighborhood to make its needs, talents and ambitions heard. The aim is clear: to strengthen the sense of belonging, encourage national unity and contribute to social stability through civic engagement.

"Giving a voice to neighborhoods" is the central vision of the program, which aims to give every resident back the opportunity to become a player in the development of his or her community.

A mission based on action and collaboration

VOQUART's mission revolves around local support, based on inclusion and collaboration. The platform aims to support isolated neighborhoods in their empowerment; encourage active solidarity; and strengthen community resilience.

To achieve this, the initiative focuses on six main areas of intervention: Community infrastructure and safety; Education, training and knowledge transfer; Health and community hygiene; Environment and waste management; Social cohesion and leadership; Local economy and entrepreneurship.

VOQUART's ambition is to transform neighborhoods into sustainable hotbeds of citizen mobilization, capable of generating local initiatives, developing skills and playing an active part in improving the living environment.

A platform for action and learning

Beyond community action, VOQUART also represents a training opportunity. People who are often far removed from conventional channels will find a space where they can acquire technical skills, understand local development issues and take part in collective decision-making.

The initiative emphasizes its "accompanying" role . The aim is not to replace residents in the management of their neighborhoods, but to support them as they gradually take charge, both on a human and socio-economic level.

A call for civic commitment

The launch of VOQUART is a call to all citizens, associations, local leaders and institutions to help build stronger, more supportive and more prosperous communities.

Source: www.adiac-congo.com/