Title: Reopening of the streets in Beni: A step towards normalization after years of isolation
Introduction :
The commune of Ruwenzori and the Nzuma district of Beni, in the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, have seen great progress recently. In fact, thirty-five streets which had been closed since 2014 have been reopened to traffic. This reopening was carried out thanks to the second phase of labor-intensive works (THIMO) of the Social Fund of the Republic. This news makes it possible to open up the Nzuma district and facilitate access to fields for the population. This new development represents a real step towards normalization after years of isolation.
The return to circulation:
Since 2014, the town of Beni had faced numerous attacks from ADF rebels, which led to the closure of many streets. This led to an exodus of the population towards other localities. However, with the reopening of thirty-five streets, the Nzuma district is gradually regaining its dynamism. Residents can once again move freely and access their fields more easily.
An initiative of the Social Fund of the Republic:
The reopening of these streets is the result of labor-intensive works (THIMO) of the Social Fund of the Republic, in partnership with the Congolese government and the World Bank. This work was carried out as part of a program to encourage local employment and improve infrastructure in conflict-affected areas. This initiative not only reopens the streets, but also creates jobs for the local population.
A call for responsibility:
The district chief, Josué Kapisa, expresses his gratitude to the Congolese government and the World Bank for their partnership in carrying out these projects. However, he calls on residents to be responsible and regularly maintain these new infrastructures. Indeed, if the population takes care of the roads, they can be kept in good condition and avoid falling back into isolation.
Conclusion :
The reopening of thirty-five streets in Beni represents a real step towards the normalization of this municipality. After years of isolation caused by rebel attacks, the population is finally regaining a certain mobility and easier access to the fields. This initiative from the Social Fund of the Republic strengthens local employment and demonstrates the commitment of the Congolese government to the development of these conflict-affected areas. However, it is important that the population plays its role in maintaining these new infrastructures to preserve their good condition.