UPF–DRC Celebrates the International Day of Peace and Promotes a Culture of Peace and Mutual Prosperity in Goma

Written by UPF-Africa

Saturday, 20 September 2025

Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo – As part of the global commemoration of the International Day of Peace 2025 and UPF’s 20th Anniversary, the Universal Peace Federation–DRC organized a thought-provoking conference in Goma under the theme: “Cultivating a Culture of Peace: Acting Together for a Peaceful World and Living in a Society of Interdependence, Mutual Prosperity, and Universal Values.”

UPF–DRC Promotes Culture of Peace and Mutual Prosperity in Goma

The keynote address was delivered by Rev. Gilbert Boissa, Itinerant Leader of UPF in the eastern provinces of the DRC, who provided deep insights into the spiritual and moral foundations of peace. He distinguished between political peace—often confined to agreements that are not always upheld—and the culture of peace, which grows from the heart, inspired by true love for God, others, and society.

Rev. Boissa further explained the interdependence between subject and object, emphasizing that balance and reciprocity based on true love lead to mutual growth and social harmony. Drawing from the teachings of UPF Co-Founders Dr. Sun Myung Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, he highlighted six universal values—freedom, equality, solidarity, tolerance, respect for nature, and shared responsibility—as pillars for cultivating peace in alignment with the ideals of the United Nations.

Honoring Peace Ambassadors and Exemplary Couples

At the conclusion of the event, six distinguished individuals were appointed as Ambassadors for Peace in recognition of their leadership in promoting coexistence and reconciliation.
Additionally, ten exemplary couples—Muslim, Christian, and secular—were awarded Certificates of Marital Merit for their faithful commitment to monogamous marriage spanning 40 to 50 years. Their example was celebrated as a living testament to love, unity, and the strength of family as the foundation of peace.

Participants expressed heartfelt appreciation for the conference and encouraged UPF to continue organizing such transformative programs that inspire moral renewal and social cohesion in the region.