The last few weeks have been marked by violent incursions led by assailants identified with the Yaka/Mobondo group in the peripheral regions of the city-province of Kinshasa, as well as in the provinces of Kwango, Mai-Ndombe and Kongo Central. We deplore incalculable damage, the massive displacement of the population and the death of several people.
Faced with this threat, the government has taken drastic measures to deal with the resurgence of banditry and urban crime, as well as inter-communal violence between the Teke and the Yaka which began in June 2022 in the Kwamouth territory.
Loyalist forces are mobilized to deal with the Mobondo attackers, as well as the unrest in these insecure parts of the country. The Deputy Minister of National Defense and Veterans Affairs recalled the will of the Government and the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo to restore State authority and security in all these regions.
However, the security challenges facing the DRC are not limited to this conflict. Kidnappings, armed robberies and attacks on mining sites are also at the root of insecurity in the provinces of South Kivu and Ituri, as well as roadblocks, which cause economic disruption in the country.
Beyond this worrying security situation, it is important to note that the government is continuing its efforts to strengthen economic relations, in partnership with China. However, the controversy over the added value premium recently opposed the inter-union of national financial authorities and the Ministry of Finance.
Despite everything, encouraging signs can be observed, such as the gradual return of the Teke to their villages, thanks to the activation of river activities and boat and boat traffic. In addition, the end of the taxi drivers’ strike in Kinshasa has allowed a return to normal for public transport in the city.
The DRC therefore faces major security and economic challenges, but it is continuing its efforts to overcome these obstacles.