Major General Marcel Mbangu, Commander of the Third Operational Defense Zone, recently carried out a visit to assess the security situation in the highlands of Fizi, Minembwe, Uvira and Itombwe. During this visit, he launched an urgent appeal to armed groups active in the region to release the school-age children they are misusing within their ranks.
General Mbangu stressed the importance of the right to education for these children, as well as their right to a stable family life, adequate health care, and the opportunity to contribute to the future of Congo. He called on warlords to realize their responsibility towards these children and put an end to their exploitation.
The spokesperson for the twelfth rapid intervention brigade, Jérémie Meya, amplified this message by emphasizing the need to protect the fundamental rights of these children. He recalled that their future depends on access to education and normal living conditions.
General Mbangu also called on local communities to disassociate themselves from armed groups and work in collaboration with security forces to preserve peace. He stressed the importance of unity between civilians and military to ensure a better future for future generations.
This visit by General Mbangu comes in a context of persistent conflicts in the Minembwe region. These clashes between the different armed groups caused numerous human losses and forced thousands of people to become internally displaced. It is therefore essential to end these conflicts and guarantee the security and protection of civilians, particularly children.
This initiative by the commander of the third operational defense zone raises awareness of the importance of preserving the fundamental rights of children in conflict zones. By freeing these children and providing them with access to education and normal living conditions, we can help build a better future for Congo and the entire Minembwe region.