**Fatshimetrie: Solidarity in action for former ADF hostages in Diango**
In a remarkable gesture of humanity, the Bridgeway Foundation recently provided much-needed assistance to 118 former hostages of the ADF rebels, newly released and regrouped in Diango, on the outskirts of Bunia. These men and women, released about two weeks ago by the joint FARDC-UPDF forces in Irumu territory, are still being cared for by the security services while awaiting their family reintegration.
The assistance offered by Bridgeway was of great importance, including medicines, clothing, soap, as well as food items such as beans, rice, soybeans and vegetable oil. These items were received with gratitude and relief by the beneficiaries, who were in dire need after enduring so much suffering.
The representative of the former hostages expressed his gratitude in these terms: “We were really in need! People suffered a lot. There are multiple cases of illness. We are very satisfied with this gesture, which expresses love and attention paid to us. We had nothing to add, only God rewards donors.”
These former hostages, after this first support, will be gradually reintegrated into their families by the Bridgeway team in the DRC, led by Jeremie Sekombi Katondolo. Stressing the importance of their work alongside the Shujaa military operations against the ADF, Katondolo explained: “We work in support of the joint FARDC – UPDF military operations. We work on several aspects, including defection. To date, we have more than seven hundred people who have left this rebellion. We have also, with the specialized services, cut several ADF financing chains here in Congo and abroad.”
Most of these former hostages spent a minimum of two months in the hands of the ADF, after being captured in the territories of Mambasa, Beni and Irumu. Their release is a testament to courage and resilience, but also a poignant reminder of the need to support and assist those who have suffered violence and oppression.
In these troubled and uncertain times, the solidarity and empathy demonstrated by organizations like Bridgeway bring a ray of hope and comfort to victims of conflict. Their exemplary action shows that, even in the darkest situations, compassion and human generosity can light the way to healing and reconciliation. May these gestures of solidarity inspire others to reach out to the most vulnerable, and together build a better and more just future for all.