The recent gathering at the Tshopo Peace, Reconciliation and Development Forum in Kisangani was a historic moment as the Mbole, Lengola and Kumu communities engaged in intense discussions for over ten hours. These discussions were marked by palpable tensions, but ultimately resulted in an agreement that is crucial for the reconciliation and peaceful coexistence of the different tribes.
The agreement that was reached last Thursday at 4pm marks a turning point, as the main communities, the Mbole and the Lengola, have agreed to restore peace in the region. A symbolic date, 20 January 2025, has been set for the customary pacification ceremonies that will take place in Osio, the village where the first clashes broke out between the Mbole and the Lengola.
In addition to this historic agreement, many recommendations emanating from the discussions were formulated. These include clarifying the territorial boundaries between Opala and Kisangani, examining the legal cases of those presumed to be involved in the conflict on an individual basis, ensuring the social reintegration of displaced persons and strengthening the security of the villages concerned.
The presence of the authorities at the end of the day for the closing of the forum marked a solemn moment. The formal signing of the commitment pact by the representatives of the two communities suggests more peaceful and harmonious days to come in the Tshopo region.
The testimony of Gaston Mukendi, who closely followed the events of this forum, underlines the importance of these discussions in favor of peace and development. These exchanges mark a crucial step in the resolution of intercommunity disputes and offer hope for peaceful and prosperous cohabitation for the inhabitants of Tshopo.
Despite the challenges encountered and the initial tensions, the desire for reconciliation and cooperation demonstrated by the participating communities paves the way for a more peaceful and harmonious future for all the inhabitants of the region. The Tshopo peace forum will remain in the annals as a key moment of rapprochement and construction of a more united and prosperous society.