Celebrating the End of Year in Kikwit: A Night of Contrasts
As the year draws to a close, the city of Kikwit in the Kwilu province comes alive with fireworks, bustling streets, and the sounds of joyous celebration. However, amidst the festive atmosphere, there is a concerning trend emerging – an increased presence of children in bars and public spaces.
A Night of Festivities
On the streets of Kikwit, fireworks light up the sky, creating a dazzling display that electrifies the crowd gathered at the Metro roundabout. The air is filled with music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses as bars and public spaces overflow with residents ushering in the new year.
The Boulevard National is a sea of activity, with pedestrians, motorcyclists, and vehicles causing traffic jams as they navigate through the revelry. Bars like La Joie and Mik-Mak are packed to the brim, with hundreds of people spilling out onto the main road to catch a glimpse of the fireworks lighting up the night sky. The atmosphere is one of pure joy and celebration.
A Concerning Trend
However, amidst the festivities, there is a darker side to the night. A disturbing trend emerges as a significant number of minors are spotted in strategic public locations such as Metro, Debout Congolais, La Joie, and Facebook. These young boys and girls, often visibly intoxicated, engage in dances deemed inappropriate, all while some adults look on passively.
Reports of falls and excesses abound, with the young revelers struggling to pick themselves up after a night of revelry. As the night progresses, the worry looms large about potential abuse, road accidents, and even the possibility of children going missing in the chaos of the celebrations.
Looking Ahead
While the night remains festive for many, there is a sense of apprehension about what the first days of the new year may bring. The specter of potential dangers and lapses in supervision hangs over this celebration marked by a sense of leniency.
As Kikwit bids farewell to the old year and welcomes the new one with open arms, it is essential to reflect on the need for responsible celebration and ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of the community, especially the young ones.
Let us all come together to celebrate joyously but responsibly, ensuring that the spirit of the new year is one of positivity, safety, and unity in Kikwit and beyond.