Congo Week begins Oct. 18

Beginning Sunday, Congo Week aims to educate people on the current situation in Congo where the deadly effects of the First and Second Congo Wars—also known as the Great African Wars—have left people’s lives devastated. This event is being celebrated in 136 universities throughout the world.

At Portland State, the event is organized by the Association of African Students, and lasts from Oct. 18–24.

According to Princesse Likayi, public relations director for AAS, a stall will be set up in the Park Blocks with posters displaying the history of Africa. Representatives from AAS will share their knowledge about the current situation in Congo.

“The purpose of the event is to educate people about the situation in Congo and its importance to the African continent,” Likayi said.

On Oct. 23, Black Studies professor Joseph A. Smith-Buani will be giving a speech on the history of Congo.
AAS will also be filming a documentary about the Congo war.

“By 2008, the war, along with its aftermath, killed 5.4 million people, making it the deadliest war since World War II,” Likayi said. “We want to draw people’s attention toward it and discuss about the steps to prevent such situation.”

The event will take place at the 5th Avenue Cinema at 5 p.m. on Oct. 23 and entry is free.