Title: Strengthening Security in Kasindi-Lubirihya Through Community Coalition
Addressing the escalating insecurity in Kasindi-Lubirihya, the head of the Ruwenzori sector, Japhet Kasereka, has introduced a novel approach to combat this prevalent issue in the border town of Beni, North Kivu province. This initiative, unveiled during a security meeting on April 20, advocates for enhanced involvement of grassroots leaders in the battle against this rampant insecurity that plagues the region.
By convening various local stakeholders, including community leaders, youth representatives, and the Congolese Business Federation (FEC)/Kasindi, this meeting served as a platform for dialogue where concerns and suggestions from civil society and residents were acknowledged. Kasereka emphasized the urgency of implementing concrete measures to counter the rising insecurity that significantly impacts the daily lives of Kasindi-Lubirihya residents. He stressed that security is a collective responsibility, underscoring the importance of collaboration between security forces and grassroots leaders to maintain a safe environment.
Engaging grassroots leaders is recognized as a potent tool in the fight against insecurity. As the primary point of contact in case of threats or disturbances within a community, these leaders can play a pivotal role in promptly alerting the authorities, facilitating swift and effective interventions to safeguard residents and prevent further security breaches.
Recently, local civil society raised alarms over acts of violence in the region, reporting incidents such as knife injuries to five individuals and over twenty cases of armed burglaries since the beginning of April.
Given this concerning situation, the call for a unified effort made by Japhet Kasereka is imperative. Establishing a community coalition with grassroots leaders at its core reinforces the commitment of all local actors to secure their living environment. Through collective action and coordinated measures, the community of Kasindi-Lubirihya can aspire to a future characterized by enhanced security and tranquility.
Ultimately, security is not solely the responsibility of authorities but a shared obligation that demands the active engagement of every individual. This innovative initiative equips the community of Kasindi-Lubirihya with a valuable mechanism to combat insecurity and underscore their united aspiration to create a peaceful and secure community environment.