Title: Protecting the population of Nyiragongo territory: an urgent call to avoid Virunga National Park
Introduction: The situation in the territory of Nyiragongo, located in the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is currently worrying. Civil society has issued an urgent appeal to the population, inviting them to avoid visiting Virunga National Park. Indeed, massacres perpetrated by the M23 rebel group recently shook the region, leading to the death of several residents. This article aims to highlight the dangers people face and raise awareness of the need to protect local communities.
Killings perpetrated by the M23: Recently, at least 15 residents of the villages of Kibati, Kiziba and Muja were victims of massacres committed by the M23 in Virunga National Park. These victims were mainly sellers who regularly went to the park to look for charcoal or potatoes, as well as farmers working in the Shaeru area, currently under M23 occupation. These acts of violence have caused deep concern within local civil society.
Worrying precedents: This is unfortunately not the first time that such massacres have occurred in Virunga National Park. About two weeks ago, at least 25 more people were killed and their bodies discovered in a state of advanced decomposition. These tragic events raise questions about the safety of local populations and the ability of authorities to prevent such acts of violence.
The urgent appeal from civil society: Faced with this alarming situation, civil society in the Nyiragongo territory launches an urgent appeal to the population to avoid going to Virunga National Park, whether for activities commercial or agricultural. This measure aims to ensure the safety of residents and protect them from the dangers caused by attacks perpetrated by the M23. Civil society also calls on the authorities to take concrete measures to strengthen security in the region and put an end to the presence of armed groups.
Conclusion: The situation in Nyiragongo territory is alarming. The massacres perpetrated by the M23 in Virunga National Park led to the death of several residents, causing deep concern within civil society. Faced with this situation, the population is called upon to avoid Virunga National Park in order to protect themselves from violence. It is crucial that the authorities take appropriate measures to guarantee the security of local communities and put an end to the insecurity caused by armed groups. The protection of populations must be an absolute priority.