The PDDRC-S site of Kasando, in Lubero territory, has in recent months experienced an increasing number of defections among combatants registered in the demobilization and community reintegration program. Indeed, around fifty fighters chose to leave the site, highlighting the challenges faced by these candidates in the reintegration process.
The manager in charge of disarmament at the site, Philémon Kambale Milonde, stressed that the conditions of care considered insufficient as well as the duration of the process were the main reasons for these defections. With nearly a hundred candidates still present on the site, it appears essential to improve reception and support conditions to promote successful reintegration.
Last February, the site benefited from food support from MONUSCO, including corn flour, rice, milk, beans and sugar. This support highlights the importance of supporting these reintegration and disarmament initiatives to contribute to the stabilization of areas affected by armed conflicts.
It is crucial to continue to support combatants who are candidates for demobilization and community reintegration in their journey, by offering support adapted to their needs and ensuring that living conditions on reintegration sites are viable. This will not only reduce defections, but also promote a successful transition to a stable and peaceful civilian life.