** The security of the Ituri in question: a joint operation between the FARDC and the UPDF **
In a context of persistent violence, Ituri, the province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), continues to be the scene of armed conflicts fed by various insurrectional groups. According to the recent declarations by General Jacques Ychaligonza Nduru, chief of the deputy general staff of the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC), a joint operation with the Ugandan People’s Army (UPDF) is preparing to neutralize these threats. If the announcement has important strategic implications, it also raises questions about the viability of military solutions in the face of deeply rooted problems.
** The historical and safe context **
First of all, it is essential to understand the historical context of Ituri, a province marked by ethnic conflicts and community rivalries since well before the break -up of war in the DRC in 1996. ADF (Allied Democratic Forces), nominally an Ugandan Islamist group, but also other groups such as Codeo (Cooperative for the economic development of Congo), have regularly plunged this region into tragic violence, Thousands of victims and displaced populations.
However, when military operations may seem necessary, have they really proven their effectiveness in the past? Recent statistics indicate that similar military offensives, even coordinated between the Congolese government and foreign forces, have favored only temporary stability. According to the report of the United Nations Bureau for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), clashes between armed groups have reached alarming heights, with a rise in violence that caused more than 1.5 million people in the Ituri province alone, and very high mortality rates, largely due to indirect wars such as famine and lack of medical care.
** A paved peace strategy? **
During his declaration, General Ychaligonza expressed the need for all armed groups to lay down the arms and follow the process of disarmament, demobilization and community reinstatement of ex-combatants (P-DDRCs). However, this formation of a common front with Ugandan forces represents a notorious dilemma, because it could still exacerbate tensions between civilian populations and military forces. Over the years, Ugandan interference in the DRC has often been perceived with skepticism by the local population, nourishing a historical resentment which could complicate the acceptance of this new joint operation.
While peace efforts must be considered, the emphasis on military solutions seems, in many ways, an instinctive response to security crises. However, experience shows that a holistic approach, integrating social and economic development, could offer a more sustainable solution. The DRC budget, which only devotes 3% to health and social services when a high proportion is dedicated to defense, raises questions about political priorities.
** The way to follow: Cohesion and sustainable development **
Instead of focusing solely on a preventive military approach, it is crucial to explore solutions that take into account the underlying socio-economic grieving that feeds the cycle of violence in Ituri. Sustainable development, peacebuilding and reconciliation programs between different communities could provide a more effective long -term response. Indeed, the implementation of education, micro-finance and infrastructure programs could transform mentalities and reduce investments in violent activities.
With the announcement of these operations, the looks turn to the international community to support such an approach, because the resources allocated to development will remain essential for regional stability. It is thus time for political actors to favor inclusive dialogues to the detriment of coercive strategies, by highlighting development as a key to peace.
In conclusion, the impact of this joint operation between the FARDC and the UPDF will be observed in the coming months. However, the real question remains: is the DRC ready to take precedence towards a real long-term lasting peace? Defense policies and security strategies must be transformed to embrace a vision oriented towards the well-being of the population in Ituri, a necessity of which will depend on the eradication of conflicts.