News: The head of the Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration and Community Stabilization Program (PDDRCS) in Beni, in the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has clarified his position regarding the integration of armed groups into the army during a dialogue bringing together the parties concerned.
According to Omar Kavota, the head of the PDDRCS, his structure has no intention of collectively integrating the armed groups that adhere to the peace process. He explained that some armed groups had initially thought that they would be pre-cantoned for collective integration into the army, but this did not correspond to the objectives of the PDDRCS.
This disagreement has led to a low number of combatants responding to the call for voluntary surrender and disarmament as part of the disarmament and demobilization process.
Omar Kavota clarified that those who wish to join the army will have to do so individually, but only after being disarmed and demobilized.
The meeting, which brought together a dozen armed groups, politicians and community leaders, aimed to consolidate peace in the region. The head of the office of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) in Beni also confirmed the mission’s support for the success of the PDDRCS in this part of the country.
This clarification of the position of the PDDRCS on the integration of armed groups into the army aims to strengthen transparency and confidence in the peace process in the DRC. This is an important step to ensure security and stability in the Beni region, which has experienced many years of armed conflict.
This individual decision to join the army after disarmament and demobilization will make it possible to assess the true will of each combatant to engage in a process of social reintegration and to contribute to the pacification of the region.
Ultimately, this individualized approach could allow better management of the risks of recidivism and rearmament, while offering former combatants a path to a peaceful and productive life.
It is encouraging to see that the authorities and international institutions are working together to promote peace and stability in the DRC and to support former combatants in their transition to civilian life.
The disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of former combatants remain major challenges in many countries affected by armed conflict. The DRC faces particularly complex challenges due to the multiplicity of armed groups active on its territory.
It is essential to support efforts to strengthen disarmament and reintegration mechanisms, while ensuring justice and access to sustainable livelihoods for former combatants