**Title: Towards a new era of governance in North Kivu: Major General Kakule Somo Evariste on the urgency of reconciliation and security**
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a country with majestic wealth, but with immeasurable social and security challenges. The renewal of the governing bodies in North Kivu, a strategically crucial province in the east of the country, raises hopes, but also questions. Major General Kakule Somo Evariste, recently appointed governor, has committed to restoring state authority and bringing peace to a region troubled by persistent armed conflicts. This proactive speech, delivered during his first meeting with social actors in Butembo, demonstrates a clear desire to combat the prevailing insecurity that is eating away at interactions between the population and its institutions.
### The context: a province in crisis
North Kivu is the scene of multiple geopolitical crises. The conflicts raging there are not only local, but also have their roots in a complex web of regional and international interests. The region is home to several armed groups, some of which support foreign agendas. Furthermore, endemic poverty and the lack of basic infrastructure fuel a seemingly endless cycle of violence. According to a recent UN report, the number of displaced people in the region has exceeded 5 million, illustrating the urgency of a rapid and effective intervention.
### The governor’s promise: unwavering determination
By announcing his intention to “retake Goma” and “liberate the entire area occupied by the enemy,” Major General Kakule Somo Evariste is seeking to galvanize minds and mobilize the support of the population. Far from being mere words, his statements reflect a well-established reality: the need for strong leadership to confront enemies of peace who, according to him, are undermining the future of the province. However, these ambitious ambitions must be put into perspective with the historical context and the previous failures of the governments in place.
### An inclusive approach: the importance of consultation
The meeting with the various social actors of Butembo highlights an essential aspect of governance: inclusiveness. Emblematic figures such as Rose Tuombeane, from the Dynamique des femmes pour la bonne gouvernance, expressed their support while calling for stimulating public mobilization. This approach is essential, because the participation of citizens in the decision-making process strengthens the legitimacy of the political process and creates a real dynamic of reconciliation..
Interestingly, data from the Observatory of Democracy in the DRC shows that provinces where governors have practiced a consultative approach have generally recorded fewer internal conflicts and an improvement in living conditions. This participatory model could therefore be an asset for General Evariste in establishing a climate of trust and mutual cooperation.
### Economic and social issues: a major challenge
Beyond the security issue, the governor must also tackle the economic problems affecting the region. North Kivu is full of natural resources, including strategic minerals, but this wealth has not managed to translate into sustainable development for the population.
The growing inequalities between the political and economic elites and the popular masses exacerbate tensions. Major General Kakule Somo Evariste will therefore have to be able to forge links between the fight against insecurity and economic development. The implementation of job creation and infrastructure projects could also be an appropriate response to counter the attraction of armed groups, by engaging young people in a more promising future.
### In conclusion: the fight for peace and prosperity
The challenge of Major General Kakule Somo Evariste is considerable. Faced with a complex and often alarming reality, his will to act must be accompanied by pragmatic and sustainable strategies. The road to Goma is strewn with pitfalls, but hope remains alive. Through inclusive governance, taking into account economic realities and strengthening security, he could pave the way for a new era of peace and prosperity in North Kivu.
The situation requires not only political solutions, but also a mobilization of the international community and regional actors who must align themselves with promising leadership. The DRC, and in particular North Kivu, deserves a chance for rebirth, and it is up to the governor to demonstrate that he can be the actor of this long-awaited change.
*Dalmond Ndungo / Fatshimetrie.org*