The commemoration of the victims of the terrible massacres that occurred in Kasika in 1998 in Mwenga has recently been at the heart of the concerns of the local population. During a meeting with a delegation from the National Victim Reparation Fund, the inhabitants of Mwenga expressed the ardent desire to see a day dedicated to the memory of the victims of these tragic events established.
Beyond this request, the population of Mwenga is also asking for the implementation of collective reparation projects to alleviate the suffering of the affected community. These projects would include initiatives such as the electrification of Mwenga centre, Kasika and Kitutu, the creation of memorial sites, the construction of essential infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, markets and community centers, as well as the improvement of the supply of drinking water.
The atrocities suffered in Kasika 25 years ago remain etched in memories, when nearly 800 people were cruelly killed by fighters from the RCD rebel group. The barbaric acts carried out, including the burial of women alive, deeply hurt the Mwenga community.
In this sense, it is imperative to recognize and honor the memory of these victims, while working towards the reconstruction and development of the region to ensure a better future for future generations. The commemoration of these painful events is part not only of a duty of memory, but also of a desire for resilience and collective reconstruction.
At the dawn of this new initiative, it is important to support efforts to bring reparation and justice to communities affected by these tragedies, while cultivating a culture of peace, reconciliation and solidarity. The memory of the victims must not be forgotten, but rather celebrated in a spirit of dignity and respect, so that their legacy can guide our present and future actions towards a more just and harmonious future.