Current events in the Democratic Republic of Congo reveal an unprecedented dynamic, that of young people engaged in the defense of their country. Among them, a group of young people between 18 and 25 years old, called the “Wazalendo” or “patriotic resistance fighters”, took up arms to protect their nation. These young people rallied to the Congolese army mobilized to successfully repel the M23 rebels, supported by the Rwandan army, from the town of Sake.
Commander Katembo Faustin, at the head of the FAR-W group (Armed Forces of Wazalendo Resistance), stressed the importance of unity and collaboration in this victory:
“Our success against the M23 stems from our union with the government and our solidarity as Wazalendo to repel the enemy. I can assure you that the M23 will never return here. We are doing everything to protect Sake.”
Clashes between the FARDC (Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo), supported by the Wazalendo, and the M23 rebels have intensified in the North Kivu region. Many young Congolese have taken up arms, driven by a sense of duty to their homeland.
Innocent Mihigo, fighter of the FAR-W group, expressed his motivations:
“I decided to take up arms to defend my country, honor the national flag and give hope to my Congolese compatriots. They must understand that we are fighting to defend the nation with love and unity.”
Despite this patriotic outpouring, human rights organizations have raised concerns. They recognize the dedication of these young fighters, but condemn the human rights violations committed by some alongside the Congolese army. These organizations are calling on the government to exercise greater oversight and accountability.
Moïse Hangi, a LUCHA activist, highlighted the duality of the situation:
“Young people defending their land against foreign aggression are legitimate, but it should be noted that some commit acts against the law. The government must supervise and ensure that these young people are monitored.”
The town of Sake has been largely deserted for months, now resembling a ghost town. Located about twenty kilometers west of Goma, Sake is considered the last security barrier protecting Goma.
Wazalendo resistance fighters patrol daily to prevent any infiltration. Last Thursday, the UN Security Council strongly condemned recent attacks by M23 rebels, which caused civilian casualties and injured a MONUSCO peacekeeper. Since the end of 2021, the territories of Rutshuru and Masisi, in North Kivu, have been gripped by conflict between the M23 rebels and the FARDC. The situation remains tense in eastern DRC, and the fighting appears far from over.
The mobilization of these young patriotic resistance fighters reflects the ardent desire to defend their country in the face of adversity. However, it is imperative that the authorities guarantee respect for human rights and supervision of actions carried out on the ground to preserve the integrity of military operations. The Democratic Republic of Congo is going through a critical period, where every gesture counts to ensure the stability and security of the nation.