Title: The resurgence of the Mobondo militia in Kwamouth territory in the DRC: a persistent challenge to peace
In the heart of Kwamouth territory, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the menacing shadow of the Mobondo militia still looms, defying the authority of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and compromising the return of displaced populations to their villages. Despite the efforts of the authorities to restore peace, these militiamen continue to sow terror and occupy several strategic villages in the region.
According to testimonies collected from local residents, Mobondo militiamen have established their presence in key localities such as Masese, Mutsheto, Ngolomingi, Mabanga, Kimomo, Mbomo, Nkomankiro, Nkana and Menko. Their control over these areas makes it impossible for displaced people to return who aspire to return to their homes and their previous lives.
The traditional chief Stany Libie expresses the dismay of the population in the face of this persistent situation: “The displaced population is demanding their return to the villages. Almost two years since the displaced people have been outside their places of work and life. They are languishing in Kinshasa. Even those who are in Bandundu, in Fasila, in Fambondo, are demanding their return. For them to return, the sweep must be done.
Despite calls for intervention from the authorities, the continued presence of Mobondo militiamen remains an enigma. Provincial deputy Moïse Makani underlines the urgency of decisive action to restore peace: “The only solution is for the Congolese state to absorb this situation in a responsible manner. When it learns that there is killing elements of the Republic forces, they come for the mop-up, but the militiamen remain in the landlocked bastions.”
The Mobondo militia, resulting from the ancestral conflict between the Teke and Yaka communities, testifies to the fragility of social ties in the region. This land conflict, having already caused the loss of many lives, has its roots in complex historical and territorial disputes.
Despite efforts, peace remains a distant goal for the residents of Kwamouth. Faced with this impasse, it is more urgent than ever to act with determination and perseverance to put an end to the insecurity which hampers the daily life of thousands of people in the region.
Pending an effective resolution of the situation, the international community must pay sustained attention to this conflict, in order to provide decisive support to local authorities in their quest for peace and reconciliation.
Through this collective awareness and this common commitment, it is possible to envisage a better future for the inhabitants of Kwamouth and to restore hope to a population bruised by violence and clashes.