### Instability in Ituri: a security situation at a crossroads
On March 19, 2025, tension crossed a new threshold in the territory of Djugu, Ituri, following an incident involving Ugandan soldiers. The latter controversially crossed the Fataki-Center barrier, triggering an immediate reaction from Codeco militiamen. This situation raises important questions not only about security in the region, but also on the geopolitical implications of this foreign military presence.
#### a dangerous dynamic
For the past month, the Ugandan army (UPDF) has increased its deployment in Ituri, as part of strategic cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC). However, this decision was welcomed with increasing distrust of local populations, who see in this intrusion a threat to their personal security. Local sources bring back an exchange of fire between Ugandan forces and militiamen. However, the territorial administrator, Colonel Ruphin Mapela, minimized these incidents, claiming that the pooling of forces was essential to counter armed groups. This dichotomy between official declarations and postponement on the ground illustrates the complexity of the situation.
To understand this dynamic, it is useful to emphasize that armed groups, such as CODECO, feed a continuous cycle of violence and insecurity. In 2022, nearly 1,300 civilians were killed in armed conflicts in Ituri, a figure that aroused the attention of international organizations. This climate of violence creates a fertile soil for exacerbated tensions, especially when foreign forces intervene without the support of the population.
### Humanitarian consequences: towards a permanent exodus?
The massive population movement observed in Fataki, Djaiba, Bule, Gbakalu and Djugu-Center reflects a tragic reality: that of a community in search of security. In the space of a few hours, thousands of people fled their homes, seeking refuge in peripheral areas. This humanitarian crisis is amplified by the fact that the already fragile infrastructure cannot bear such an influx of displaced. The humanitarian response, although necessary, often seems unsuitable and insufficient.
It should also be noted that this new exodus only makes an already existing problem. In 2023, according to the UN humanitarian affairs office, nearly 5 million people were moved inside the DRC, which ranked the country among the most affected by forced trips to the world. The fear of a massive and sustainable displacement is gaining momentum, threatening not only the social foundations of these communities, but also their ability to rebuild lasting lives.
#### Outlook for the future: what role for OAU and the international community?
Faced with this crisis, the role of the international community becomes crucial. The African Union (AU) and other regional organizations must act promptly to avoid deterioration of the situation. The pooling of forces between the FARDC and the UPDF, although capable of dealing with threats; It should not hide the desperate needs of the population.
It is also necessary to critically consider the framework of cooperation that links Congo and Uganda. This partnership, instead of providing stability, could rather transform into a catalyst for more serious destabilization if the concerns of local populations are not taken into account.
In conclusion, while the situation in Fataki-Center and in the territory of Djugu seems unstable, it is essential to adopt a holistic approach which addresses security problems while guaranteeing responses to humanitarian needs. Far from being just a simple military question, the answer to this crisis will depend on regional and international cooperation truly inclusive and respectful of the dignity of affected populations. The way to lasting peace inevitably involves recognition of human rights and the establishment of effective dialogue mechanisms, so that the voices of the Congolese are not stifled in a tumult of balls and military policies.