** Ituri: the persistent shadow of ADFs on peace and security of populations **
At the heart of the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, the province of Ituri continues to live under the insidious threat of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). The recent attacks on a dozen villages in the chiefdom of Babila Bakwanza, causing the death of at least 20 people, testify to a disturbing resurgence of violence after three months of lull. While the administrator of the territory of Mambasa, Jean-Baptiste Munyapandi, affirms that the army is in pursuit of the attackers, it is crucial to examine this situation not only through the prism of tragic events but also in the broader context of regional stability and military responses.
### A cycle of recurring violence
ADF’s attacks, which have made successive incursions in villages such as Pesa, Kadika and Matolo, are unfortunately not an isolated event. In recent years, these rebels have sowed terror in the east of the country, taking advantage of the security vacuum left by an often overwhelmed state and the scattered armed forces. In 2021, according to UN reports and local organizations, the ADFs were responsible for the death of more than 1,000 civilians, aggravating a humanitarian crisis which already affects millions of people.
This new wave of violence is part of a scheme where attacks occur sporadically to, then, plunge the villages back into a state of fear. The testimonies collected by organizations such as the new Congolese civil society question the effectiveness of current Congolese army strategies and its partners.
## Military answers and the need for extended cooperation
The coordinator of the new Congolese civil society, Jospin Paluku, calls for a revival of joint operations between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the Ugandan army (UPDF). However, it is important to note that, if military operations can provide a temporary respite, they do not solve the deep causes of violence.
The importance of a multifacette approach appears more and more necessary. Beyond the simple military response, it is imperative to hire local populations, to invest in the economic development of the region, and to create education programs aimed at disengaging young people from the spiral of violence. Studies show that a viable economic space and adapted education can considerably reduce the attraction of membership to armed groups.
### Humanitarian consequences: a massive displacement of populations
The recent attacks have caused a massive movement of populations seeking refuge in areas considered to be more secure. According to UN estimates, the number of people displaced in eastern DRC could reach 5.6 million by the end of the year, making the region one of the most affected by forced trips to the world. This adds additional pressure to host communities and further complicates access to humanitarian aid, which is already insufficient.
The consequences of violence are not only limited to the immediate context. Children, often targeted or victims, can undergo lasting psychological trauma that will mark them for life. Systematic violence has deep repercussions on the social fabric, making reconciliation increasingly difficult.
### Finding the search for sustainable solutions
In this disturbed context, two crucial elements deserve to be discussed. First, the role of international organizations and NGOs in an integrated approach to approach the crisis. Initiatives aimed at strengthening local governance and promoting dialogue between communities can differentiate.
Second, better coordination between local, regional and international players can promote a more effective response to these crises. Regional forums involving neighboring countries could be envisaged for sharing information and best practices in terms of security and development.
In conclusion, the recent violence perpetrated by the ADF in ITUI should not be considered only as a series of isolated attacks but as an alert on the persistent fragility of the region. True peace will require a holistic approach, including security, economic development, and especially the resilience of communities. The citizens of Ituri deserve to exist in an environment where peace is not an exception but a norm.