Fatshimétrie: The desertion of the inhabitants of the Muhola group in the Lubero territory, North Kivu, raises concerns
For nearly two months, the inhabitants of the Muhola group, located in the Baswagha chiefdom, Lubero territory, have been living in fear and uncertainty. The streets of the localities of Mabambi and Kalondo are deserted, activities are paralyzed, and schools have not opened their doors since the beginning of the school year. This situation is the result of the clashes that broke out between local armed groups and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC).
A teacher from the region, who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons, testifies to the precarious situation in which the inhabitants of Muhola find themselves: “For three years, the Mai-Mai militias have taken control of these territories. However, on October 29, 2024, the FARDC soldiers intervened to dislodge them. Fearing for their safety, the inhabitants fled, leaving behind ghost villages.”
On the section between Mabambi and Kalondo, all the villages are empty, no activity is taking place, and schools and churches are closed. This situation deeply worries the inhabitants, especially the teachers who regret the total lack of education for children since the beginning of these unrest.
Faced with this growing humanitarian crisis, the inhabitants of Muhola are calling on the authorities to intervene quickly to restore peace and security in the region. Teachers are calling for help, stressing the urgency of allowing schools to reopen to ensure the education of younger generations.
It is imperative that the authorities take concrete measures to secure the region and put an end to the armed clashes that are causing so much suffering to the people of Muhola. The future of these communities depends on peace and stability, and it is the responsibility of the authorities to ensure that these fundamental rights are respected.
In conclusion, the situation in the Muhola groupement is alarming, and urgent action must be taken to end this humanitarian crisis. The people deserve to live in peace, to be able to go about their daily lives and to offer a better future to their children. It is time for the international community to become aware of this situation and provide support to the affected populations in the Lubero territory, North Kivu.