The “Mobondo” militia continues to sow terror in the western part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This armed group, born out of the conflict between the Teke and Yaka communities, is responsible for targeted attacks against innocent civilians. According to statements by the Deputy Minister of the Interior, Security and Customary Affairs, the Mobondo militia has string pullers in certain political parties. Political figures are thus implicated in this violence, with the aim of weakening the legal institutions of the country.
The Mobondo militia attacks are an example of the resurgence of banditry and urban crime in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The government has taken steps to strengthen security in the most affected provinces, such as Haut Katanga, Nord-Kivu, Sud-Kivu and Ituri. Nevertheless, this situation highlights the urgency of the reform of security institutions in the DRC.
The Provincial Security Council was mobilized to deal with the situation. The central government has also strengthened security arrangements, in an effort to counter the threat posed by the Mobondo militia as well as other criminal groups.
This crisis highlights the importance of implementing effective public policies to fight against insecurity. Production sharing contracts to stimulate the oil industry, UN reform in South Africa, or the fight for an impartial CENI, are all concrete measures that could be implemented. The fight against crime can only be effective with solid institutions and appropriate public policies.
It is also crucial that the international community get involved in resolving this crisis. The DRC’s partner countries are invited to support the government’s efforts in its fight against insecurity, in particular through financial and material aid, sharing of skills and experience.
In addition, substantive work must be carried out to improve the quality of life of populations living in areas affected by insecurity. It is important to invest in programs for sustainable development, training and job creation, in order to make it more difficult for young people to be recruited into armed groups.
Finally, it is essential that all the parties involved in the conflicts come together around the table. A process of dialogue must be initiated between the Teke and Yaka communities to resolve the land disputes that led to the birth of the Mobondo militia. Resolving these conflicts is key to ending this crisis, as well as other security issues across the country.