### The Cacophonies of the Conflict in North Kivu: Between Local and Geopolitical Issues
In the heart of Central Africa, North Kivu has been a theater of armed violence for decades that reveals not only local tensions, but also the entanglements of regional powers. The fighting of January 9, 2024 between the Congolese army and Wazalendo fighters, supported by the M23 rebel movement, does not only represent military clashes, but also illustrates complex socio-political dynamics.
#### A Conflict with Many Faces
The clashes on the hills of Ndumba, Kiluku, Bwanga and Lukala, as well as in the locality of Mweso, are not isolated events. They are part of a context where ethnic, political and economic rivalries are intertwined and exacerbate an already tense climate. The Wazalendo group, which emerges as a local resistance force, also represents a reaction to decades of marginalization and oppression of local communities. Given the weakness of the Congolese state in some regions, this dynamic leads some groups to seek alliances, even compromising ones, to defend their interests.
A measure of the humanitarian impact of these conflicts can be seen in the collapse of school activities in Mweso, where panic has paralyzed schools. This situation underlines one of the most devastating consequences of conflict: children’s education, which, beyond the loss of learning, is a crucial investment in the socio-economic future of the region. The 2022 UNDP report reveals that more than 2 million children are already out of school in the country, a scourge that worsens with each new conflict.
#### Civilian Injuries: An Invisible Tragedy
The mention of two civilians, including a seriously injured child, underlines the urgency of awareness of the tragic reality of armed conflicts. Innocent victims are not just numbers, but individual lives whose stories are often left aside. A comparative analysis of humanitarian organizations’ data on civilian casualties shows that in similar conflicts, up to 90% of victims are non-combatants. The protection of civilians must become a priority, both in military strategy manuals and in international policies.
#### Geopolitics and Foreign Alliances
Rwanda’s apparent support for the M23 cannot be ignored in this dynamic. This small country is often described as a key player in the African Great Lakes chessboard. Historians and political analysts note that the modern history of Rwanda and the DRC is marked by intertwined conflicts, with multiple allegiances and betrayals. This Rwandan support could be seen as an opportunity for Rwanda to strengthen its influence in the region, but also as a threat to the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Looking at the United States Department of State statistics on military and humanitarian aid to the DRC, we can see a need for much more tailored and layered investments. The international community must understand that peace is not decreed by the sole provision of funds, but by facilitating dialogue and sustainable development.
#### Conclusion: Towards a Collective Reflection
The fighting of January 9 is a powerful reminder of the persistent challenges facing North Kivu. While the current situation seems tragic and hopeless, it also calls for a collective reflection on sustainable solutions. The key lies in promoting inclusive dialogue, better protection of civilian populations, and genuine engagement of regional and international powers in their own right.
These issues remind us that peace is not only the absence of war, but also the presence of justice, equality, and respect for human rights. Conflicts, such as those this morning, must not continue to be seen as inevitabilities, but as calls to action for a better future. This is where hope lies for the Congolese people and indeed for the entire Great Lakes region.