Title: Return of populations to the chiefdoms of Babelebe and Baboabokoe: a glimmer of hope in the Irumu region of the DRC
Introduction :
For the past week, more than 10,000 people have been able to return to their localities in the chiefdoms of Babelebe and Baboabokoe, located in the territory of Irumu in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This return is the result of efforts by the provincial government to establish a ceasefire between the armed groups FPIC and CODECO. This news raises real hope for pacification and development in a region marked by armed conflict and insecurity.
A return made possible thanks to the efforts of the provincial government:
The provincial authorities of Ituri have played a key role in bringing about this return of populations. Ceasefire meetings have been orchestrated between the leaders of the armed groups FPIC and CODECO, thus ensuring a climate of peace conducive to the return of the inhabitants to their places of origin. The head of the Bayana groupement, Ihana Biabo Abdou, expresses his gratitude to the provincial authorities and congratulates them for their efforts to preserve unity and peaceful coexistence in the region.
A call for help for the start of the school year and the reconstruction of schools:
Despite this encouraging return, the head of the Bayana group also underlines the challenges that the population must face. He thus launches a poignant appeal to people of good will to come to their aid, in particular to prepare for the return to school of children who have been deprived of education during the period of displacement. Moreover, it underlines the urgent need for the reconstruction of the dilapidated schools in the region. He draws attention to the fact that there are only three schools in Akodabo village, and that they are all totally destroyed. He therefore implores the authorities to support him in this essential task.
The call for reconciliation and reconstruction of the region:
The commander of the 32nd military region, General Peter Chirimwami, addresses the young arms holders still present in the region. He calls on them to surrender their weapons to the competent authorities and to commit to the development of their community. He insists on the need to put an end to the violence and to work together towards the reconstruction of the Irumu region.
Reinforcement of security to ensure the protection of populations:
The Congolese army claims to have reinforced its personnel in the Irumu region in order to guarantee the security of the population in a sustainable manner. This military presence aims to build trust and prevent further violence. The protection of the inhabitants is an absolute priority for the authorities, who wish to restore peace and allow the populations to rebuild their lives in secure conditions..
Conclusion :
The return of people to the chiefdoms of Babelebe and Baboabokoe is a ray of hope in the Irumu region of the DRC. The efforts of the provincial government to establish a ceasefire between the armed groups have enabled this significant step towards the pacification and development of the region. However, challenges remain, such as rebuilding destroyed schools and the need to help residents reintegrate fully into their communities