**Lubero: A complex security reality at the heart of conflicts in North Kivu**
The territory of Lubero, located in the heart of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is the scene of a socio-political dynamic marked by a multiplicity of factors that exacerbate tensions and hinder development. Colonel Alain Kikewa, administrator of the territory, recently told Fatshimetrie that despite the incursions of the M23 and ADF rebellions, the security situation in Lubero-centre remained relatively calm at the beginning of 2024. A statement that deserves to be qualified and put into perspective in the overall context of the region.
### A mixed security situation
The notion of “relative calm” introduced by Colonel Kikewa highlights the complexity of the security picture in Lubero. While the assertive presence of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) effectively allows control over Lubero-centre to be maintained, it does not erase the tragic reality of internal displacement caused by attacks by armed groups. According to UN estimates, the number of people displaced by violence in the North Kivu region has increased considerably in recent years, reaching more than 5 million people in 2023. This incessant flow of displaced people reflects a humanitarian crisis whose consequences extend far beyond simple figures.
### A troubled regional geopolitics
The context of the conflicts in Lubero is also intrinsically linked to broader geopolitical issues. The issue of the M23, often perceived as an instrument of Rwandan aggression, raises concerns about the sovereignty of the DRC. Colonel Kikewa does not hesitate to mention the Rwandan aggression through its auxiliaries, thus highlighting a phenomenon that is rooted in a complex history of ethnic rivalries and struggles for control of natural resources. North Kivu, rich in precious minerals, is prey to national and international interests that exacerbate armed conflicts.
### A call for assistance: at the heart of a humanitarian crisis
Colonel Kikewa’s call for support resonates like a cry of distress in a devastated humanitarian landscape. The displaced, often in situations of extreme vulnerability, lack resources such as food, shelter, and medical care. Fatshimetrie.org reported that nearly 3 million people require emergency humanitarian assistance in North Kivu, which highlights the need for significant mobilization on the part of the international community. This situation also raises questions about the effectiveness of humanitarian aid efforts, which are often hampered by bureaucratic protocols and conflicts of interest..
### A perspective of resilience and hope
Beyond the bleak picture, it is essential to highlight the local initiatives and resilience movements that are emerging within the affected communities. Local NGOs and solidarity groups, although limited by their resources, play a crucial role in supporting the displaced. These basic structures, often underestimated, provide a form of psychological and material support that can transform the situation of many families.
In addition, in a region where the economy is often paralyzed by chaos, community projects are being set up to ensure a certain autonomy. The development of local agricultural products, for example, is not only a response to the immediate needs of the displaced but also opens up prospects for long-term development.
### Conclusion: a steep path to peace
The situation in Lubero is evolving in a context of persistent violence and deterioration in the daily lives of the populations. While the DRC Armed Forces may be able to control some areas, the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges. The urgency of an adequate humanitarian response, coupled with long-term efforts to address the root causes of conflict, including resource governance and human rights, is indisputable.
It is crucial that international actors, the Congolese government and NGOs work closely together to build a peaceful future for the people of Lubero. The resilience of local communities, supported by targeted and strategic assistance, could very well be the key to a positive turning point in this region scarred by decades of conflict. In short, the reality in Lubero resonates as a call for solidarity and concerted action in the face of major challenges that affect not only lives, but also the horizon of an entire country.