In a context marked by the alarming kidnapping of a group of farmers by ADF rebels in the locality of Mayisafi, the civil society of the Banande-Kainama group, in the territory of Beni, is sounding the alarm on the urgent need to strengthen security measures along the Eringeti-Kainama road. This road, crucial for the connection between the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri, has become the scene of recurrent attacks by ADF rebels, thus threatening the safety of residents and travelers who use it.
Bienfait Baraka, civil society advisor of the Banande-Kainama group, expressed serious concerns about the risk of total isolation of this road, if the attacks by ADF rebels persist in this way. He warns of a possible paralysis of traffic, as happened on the Luna-Komanda axis. Faced with this growing threat, he calls for concerted action by the Congolese and Ugandan armed forces, as well as MONUSCO, to intensify security operations in sensitive areas such as Nyamulagira, Kamungu, Lesse, Kpele and other isolated areas of the Bambuba-Kisiki and Banande-Kainama groupings.
He stresses that these joint efforts would reduce the risks of attacks and kidnappings, particularly as the end-of-year holidays approach. Baraka insists that the security of citizens is paramount in order to allow them to celebrate these festive events in peace. He therefore calls for a reinforced presence of combat patrols along the Eringeti-Kainama road, guaranteeing the protection of users and inhabitants of the region.
Since November, the region has been the scene of at least four attacks, resulting in the tragic loss of several civilian lives and considerable material damage. Despite announcements of increased security measures by the army, civil society insists on the need to move from words to actions, in order to ensure effective protection of local populations.
In conclusion, it is imperative that the competent authorities take concrete measures to guarantee the safety of residents and travelers using the Eringeti-Kainama road. The current situation, marked by growing insecurity, cannot continue without risking serious consequences for the local population. It is time to act resolutely and immediately to restore tranquility and stability in this region weakened by attacks by armed groups.