“The land conflict between the inhabitants of Lubenga and Cathedral on the one hand, and those of Kalendakanyi on the other, in the territory of Lubao, has plunged the region into horror with a tragic toll of ten dead and many injured. This escalation of violence, deplorable and avoidable, highlights the persistent tensions around land ownership, exacerbated by conflicting economic interests.
The incident, which occurred in the Bekalebue sector, more than 130 kilometers from Kabinda, forced nearly 500 people to take refuge in the bush, fleeing deadly clashes. The atrocities committed during these events are a sad reality, testifying to the inhumane conditions faced by these populations trapped in blind violence.
The roots of this conflict seem to lie in long-latent land disputes, fueled by competition for access to arable land, particularly in anticipation of the winged ants, a source of income for many households. These clashes, of unprecedented violence, go far beyond a simple territorial dispute and highlight the urgency of a peaceful and lasting resolution of this conflict.
While local authorities remain curiously silent in the face of this state of crisis, it is imperative to put in place appeasement and mediation measures to prevent new tragedies. The cooperation of local communities, humanitarian organizations and government authorities is essential to restore peace and stability in this region ravaged by violence and poverty.
At a time when solidarity and fraternity should prevail, it is essential to take concrete action to protect vulnerable populations and guarantee a more peaceful future for all. The time has come to turn the page on violence and build a future based on justice, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
Beyond this human tragedy, this land conflict reveals the deep scars of a society plagued by social and economic tensions, calling for collective reflection on the issues of land ownership, rural development and social cohesion. By addressing the roots of these conflicts, we will be able to build a more harmonious and equitable future for all the inhabitants of this wounded region.
In conclusion, it is imperative to act quickly and with determination to put an end to this spiral of violence and instability, and to lay the foundations for lasting peace and inclusive development for all. The resolution of this land conflict can no longer wait: the time has come to unite in a spirit of solidarity and reconciliation, in order to build a better future for generations to come.”