The thousands of displaced persons from the Fataki site, in the Djugu territory in Ituri, recently expressed their ardent desire to return to their villages of origin. A demonstration took place during the visit of the Head of the MONUSCO Civil Affairs Division to the site, thus highlighting the difficult situation and the legitimate aspiration of these displaced persons who finally wish to return to their homes.
During this demonstration, the displaced persons were keen to emphasize the importance of the protection offered by MONUSCO peacekeepers on their site. They also called for effective security in their villages of origin in order to be able to consider a safe return. Indeed, these men, women and children, having left their homes at least two years ago to take refuge near the military base of MONUSCO peacekeepers, legitimately aspire to a more peaceful life in their usual environment.
A poignant testimony from a displaced woman highlights the challenges faced by these vulnerable people, including violations of fundamental rights such as violence against women in villages in search of food, perpetrated by militiamen. This painful reality underlines the urgency of implementing concrete actions such as the disarmament of militiamen and the promotion of peace, essential to ensure a sustainable and safe return of displaced people to their villages of origin.
For his part, Logo Biakutaga, president of the youth of Fataki, insists on the importance of strengthening social cohesion between the different communities affected by the conflict. He calls for continued mobilization by MONUSCO to promote rapprochement and harmony between the members of each community, thus emphasizing the crucial role of international organizations in building a peaceful and prosperous future for all.
MONUSCO’s Head of Civil Affairs, Earine Munii, made a firm commitment to support efforts to protect civilians and facilitate the safe return of displaced persons to their villages of origin. Her involvement demonstrates the international community’s commitment to supporting populations affected by conflict, and to working hand in hand with local authorities to ensure a better future for all.
In conclusion, the situation of the displaced in Fataki highlights the humanitarian challenges faced by many communities affected by armed conflict. It is imperative to redouble efforts to ensure security, reconciliation and lasting peace in these regions affected by violence, in order to enable displaced persons to regain their dignity and place within their communities.