The 60th anniversary of the independence of our beautiful country, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), was celebrated on the evening of Tuesday, June 30, 2020, and all CCH members were invited. The celebration was held virtually on Zoom. Distinguished guests included: (1) the representative of the City of Hamilton, Mr. Christophe Cutler, who delivered remarks aimed at strengthening the existing partnership between the CCH and the City of Hamilton; (2) Mr. John Ariyo, Manager of Community Initiatives, Strategic Partnerships and Communications for the City of Hamilton.
The more than 50 compatriots who took part in this national celebration showed that, above all, unity, love and pride in belonging to the Congolese homeland were enough to keep the flame of freedom burning forever. The virtual celebration opened with the “Debout Congolais” (national anthem), sung by Ms. Carine Matsimbo. It was followed by hymns of praise to God, sung by Ms. Nana Ngobila. In his message calling for unity and gratitude for the blessings of God the Creator during this dark period in human history, Pastor Eddy Mbambi stressed the importance of the values of humility that should guide us during the COVID-19 period, which claimed many victims, and of turning to God, the master of all time, for our protection.
Papa Maurice Kabisoso, the keynote speaker of the evening, brought the highlights of independence back to life for members by describing the qualities of our national hero, Patrice Émery Lumumba — a controversial but courageous figure who left his mark on the history of our beautiful country’s independence, the DRC.
In his speech, CCH President Jean-Jacques Somwe echoed the words of Patrice Lumumba: “to forget the tribal quarrels that exhaust us and risk making us despised abroad.” As a community living abroad, not only are we bound to live together, but each and every one of us has a duty, a moral obligation, to help our community thrive. The President ended his remarks by inviting members to reflect on the following questions: (1) Have we done enough to develop our community? (2) What have you done for your community? (3) What has been your contribution this year to the growth of our community?
