On November 16, 2023, in Kisangani, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the official inauguration of the management committee of the Special Fund for Reparation and Compensation for Victims of Armed Activities of Uganda (FRIVAO) took place. This event marks the start of the activities of this fund which aims to compensate victims affected by armed activities.
Under the leadership of the Minister of Justice, Rose Mutombo, the FRIVAO management committee will be responsible for overseeing the allocation of funds intended for victim compensation. Based in Kisangani, this public establishment is made up of members appointed by presidential order and has the mission of identifying victims and fairly distributing compensation in accordance with the ruling of the International Court of Justice.
During her inaugural speech, the Minister of Justice stressed the importance of taking into account the three categories of reparations mentioned by the Court and identifying direct and indirect victims of Uganda’s armed activities. She also emphasized the need for close work with civil society organizations to ensure accurate identification of victims and prevent any attempts at fraud.
The question of collective reparation was also addressed, given the difficulties in reconstituting victims after several years. The minister underlined the importance of favoring collective projects benefiting the entire affected community. For example, the construction of a memorial to commemorate those who died during the conflicts was mentioned. It was recalled that the compensation process is complex and requires time as well as compliance with international practices.
This FRIVAO management committee aims to reconcile the different segments of the population and to enable fair and equitable compensation for victims. It is part of an approach of respect and memory towards the victims who unjustly died during Uganda’s armed activities.
It is important to note that the total amount owed by Uganda to the DRC, following the ruling of the International Court of Justice, will be paid in five annual installments of 65 million US dollars. The funds are currently recorded in a transitional account of the Ministry of Justice pending the effective operationalization of the FRIVAO.
With the establishment of this FRIVAO management committee, hope is given to victims of Uganda’s armed activities in the DRC to receive fair compensation and begin to rebuild their lives. It is a step towards justice and reparation for these victims who deserve to be recognized and supported in their fight for dignity and recognition of their rights.