Mémorial du Soldat Congolais
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 MONUSCO at Mémorial du Soldat Congolais | |
 | |
| Location | FORESCOM Roundabout, Gombe, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo |
|---|---|
| Designer | Van Ntoto |
| Builder | Christophe Meko Disengomoka |
| Height | 3 m (9.8 ft) |
| Opening date | July 28, 2017 |
The Mémorial du Soldat Congolais (meaning "Congolese Soldier Memorial") is a 3-meter-tall memorial located at the FORESCOM Roundabout in Gombe, Kinshasa. The monument serves as a national tribute to the Congolese soldiers who fought and made the ultimate sacrifice throughout the country's tumultuous history, spanning from 1885 to the present day.[1] Inaugurated on 28 July 2017, by former President Joseph Kabila, the monument was designed by Van Ntoto of Anko Design Corporation and constructed by a Congolese monumental sculptor, Christophe Meko Disengomoka. The memorial symbolizes remembrance, honor, and patriotism, providing visitors with a space to reflect on and pay tribute to the fallen soldiers who played a significant role in the nation's history.[2][3]
It is commemorated annually on 17 May, in honor of the Alliance of Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Congo-Zaire's entry into Kinshasa. The date marks the day rebel forces captured the city, overthrowing the autocratic ruler Mobutu Sese Seko. Since then, 17 May has been recognized as a day of remembrance for soldiers who fell in battle since 1997. It also pays tribute to the soldiers in a historical line that goes from the Congo Free State, during which the country was Leopold II of Belgium's personal fiefdom, to the present day.[4] The commemoration opens with the words of the FARDC's Chief of General Staff, who reminds everyone of the soldier's solemn duty of self-forgetfulness and sacrifice for the nation. He also reiterates the soldier's motto, "Ne jamais trahir le Congo" (Never betray the Congo), and salutes the President's close ties with the army. The President will honor the occasion by placing a floral wreath at the monument.[3][5]