Ubakagi Sexual violence has been a serious problem in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for many years. The term "Ubakagi" is used in Congolese culture to refer to the act of cutting meat from a dead animal, but it’s also used to describe women who have been raped. In this context, a survivor of rape is seen as being lower than an animal, which leads to their ostracism from both their communities and families.

In the various conflicts in Congo, sexual violence is often used as a weapon of war. It’s a way to offend and humiliate the enemy, leaving devastating long-term effects on the victims.

Black magic also plays a role in this violence. Some offenders believe that the ashes from female reproductive organs have magical properties when used for tattoos. This belief can lead some rapists to kill and mutilate their victims after the assault, adding another layer of brutality to the crime and showing how deeply rooted cultural beliefs contribute to this issue in the DRC.

The phallus symbolizes power and abuse in this context. There are many angles to explore regarding the relationship between offenders and power, including their animalistic behaviors, the impact of colonial history, and the systems and rituals surrounding these acts of violence.
Released: 2011
Material: Handmade collage