Title: Reintegration of ex-combatants in Beni: a community dialogue for lasting peace
Introduction :
The process of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of ex-combatants is a crucial step in the search for peace and stability in regions affected by armed conflicts. In Beni, North Kivu, the Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery and Stabilization Program (P-DDRCS) recently organized a community dialogue aimed at preparing the upcoming reintegration of ex-combatants already confined in certain sites. This article returns to this initiative and the importance of the reintegration of ex-combatants into society.
A dialogue to raise awareness and prepare for reintegration:
During this dialogue, leaders of armed groups, local authorities and representatives of civil society participated to discuss the importance of reintegrating ex-combatants into the community. Participants were made aware of the positive aspects of this process and were encouraged to warmly welcome ex-combatants who have chosen the path of peace. This dialogue was also an opportunity for the P-DDRCS to recall the existence of funds already mobilized to support the reintegration of disarmed and demobilized ex-combatants.
MONUSCO’s contribution:
MONUSCO, which supports this initiative, stressed the importance of the reintegration of ex-combatants into Congolese society. The interim head of MONUSCO office in the Far North of North Kivu called on local communities to welcome ex-combatants with open arms, recalling that this process is part of the legacies that MONUSCO will leave in the DRC. The representative of the local peace and development committees of the town of Beni spoke in favor of this reintegration, while encouraging ex-combatants to distance themselves from any harmful activity they may have committed when they were still members of armed groups.
Cantonment sites already operational:
The Mambango disarmament and demobilization site in Beni currently hosts around 150 ex-combatants. These sites are places where ex-combatants are quartered, disarmed and demobilized before beginning the reintegration process. They provide a secure space to prepare them for their return to society. They already benefit from financial support thanks to the mobilization of funds by the MONUSCO stabilization support unit.
Conclusion :
The reintegration of ex-combatants is an essential step in building lasting peace. The community dialogue organized by P-DDRCS in Beni aims to raise awareness among stakeholders and prepare for the reintegration of ex-combatants into Congolese society. While welcoming these ex-combatants with open arms, it is crucial to offer them support and opportunities for successful reintegration. By collaborating with local authorities and civil society, it is possible to create an environment conducive to reconciliation and building a peaceful future for all.