The town of Nyamilima, located 40 kilometers northeast of Kiwanja, in the territory of Rutshuru (North Kivu), is currently the scene of high tensions and a protest movement. For the second day in a row, the city is paralyzed by a ghost town, with barricades on the Kiwanja-Ishasha road, the closure of schools and businesses.
This situation stems from the discontent of the young people of Nyamilima following the killing of one of their own during clashes with eco-guards from the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN). The tragic death of this young person caused a wave of anger among the population.
But this is not the only reason for discontent among the inhabitants of Nyamilima. They are also calling for the removal of the electric fence that was erected on the boundaries of Virunga National Park, accusing authorities of acting without the consent of neighboring communities.
This claim highlights a conflict between the preservation of the environment and the interests of local populations. While Virunga National Park is recognized for its rich biodiversity and environmental value, it is also home to many communities who depend on its natural resources for their livelihood.
It is essential to find a balance between protecting the environment and respecting the rights and needs of local populations. The installation of an electric fence without prior consultation of neighboring communities illustrates a lack of dialogue and consideration of their concerns.
It is therefore necessary for the authorities to take into consideration the legitimate demands of the population of Nyamilima and open a real dialogue to find suitable solutions. It is important to promote the participation and inclusion of local communities in the management of natural resources and decision-making concerning their territory.
It is also essential to raise awareness among the population of the importance of preserving the environment and finding sustainable alternatives to meet their needs. This could include the promotion of sustainable agriculture, responsible tourism or the development of economic projects beneficial to local communities.
In conclusion, the situation in Nyamilima highlights the tensions between the preservation of the environment and the interests of local populations. It is essential to promote dialogue and the inclusion of communities to find sustainable and balanced solutions. Protection of the environment and respect for people’s rights must go hand in hand to ensure a harmonious future for all.