In Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, President Félix Tshisekedi is using a national program called the National Service to address severe sanitation issues. The National Service is a government initiative that employs young men, often from disadvantaged backgrounds, for public service roles. As part of this effort, more than 4,500 recruits have been deployed into the streets of Kinshasa to clean up the city and help restore order. Kinshasa produces nearly 15,000 tons of waste each day, a staggering amount that overwhelms the city's waste management systems. This waste includes household trash, market refuse, and industrial byproducts, often left uncollected in public spaces. The buildup of waste not only creates unsightly conditions but also poses serious health risks, contributing to the spread of diseases and attracting pests. Many of the recruits in the National Service have been selected from groups of men who have previously been convicted of crimes. These individuals are given a chance to reintegrate into society by performing essential public service work. The initiative aims to provide them with a structured environment, a form of rehabilitation, and a way to contribute to the community. While the National Service has been praised for its efforts to improve public cleanliness and order, it has also raised questions about the treatment and conditions of the recruits. Critics argue that the program may not fully address the underlying issues of waste management and public health, and that more sustainable solutions are needed. Nonetheless, the government continues to rely on this initiative as a key strategy in its broader efforts to improve urban living conditions in Kinshasa.