### Kibirizi cultivators: between armed conflict and food insecurity
The recent clashes between the Wazalendo armed groups and the M23/AFC rebels, which occurred in Kyasenda, near the Bwito chiefdom in the territory of Rutshuru, are not simply a force of strength between rival factions. These violence, and their ability to paralyze the access of cultivators of the agglomeration of Kibirizi to their fields, reveal an alarming link between armed conflicts, food insecurity and humanitarian crises.
#### An alarming situation
Since March 27, cultivators have been unable to access the land that feeds not only their families, but also a significant part of the local population. Indeed, Kibirizi, like many regions affected by persistent conflicts, is geographically and economically linked to its immediate environment. The land, a source of life and subsistence, becomes a collateral victim of power struggles. When farmers cannot work on their fields, it is the local supply of foodstuffs that is compromised, adding pressure on communities already tired by years of violence.
### Conflict history and multiplicity of actors
To understand the repercussions of these fights, it is essential to explore the history of conflicts in the region. The Ratshuru territory has long been an area of confrontation between various armed groups, each claiming a territory or legitimacy. The complexity of this dynamic lies in the fact that, although the M23 is often perceived as a dominant actor, other local groups, such as leopards and APCLS, continue to exert a significant influence on regional security. This violence ecosystem creates permanent instability that weakens development and humanitarian assistance initiatives.
#### Economic impact: an infernal spiral
Beyond the simple incapacity of farmers to work, the economic impact of conflicts is devastating. Studies on the effects of armed conflicts on agriculture reveal alarming statistics: up to 70 % of agriculture can lose their harvest during periods of conflict. In the case of Kibirizi, a decrease in agricultural yields would not only have consequences on food security, but could also plunge communities into long -term poverty. Faced with this reality, a transformation of agricultural infrastructure and access to markets are also hampered, exacerbating a cycle of dependence on humanitarian aid that is difficult to settle.
### Resilience imperative
The international community and non -governmental organizations must become aware of the urgency of a resilience focused, not only on a punctual humanitarian response. Investing in programs that facilitate secure access to land, and which encourage the training of agricultural cooperatives, could lead to sustainable food autonomy. In parallel, it is imperative to establish intercommunity and inter -group dialogues in order to reduce distrust and promote peaceful coexistence.
#### Conclusion: A call to action
The case of Kibirizi’s cultivators is symptomatic of a larger crisis that broods within the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where armed conflicts, food insecurity and poverty intertwine to form a destructive canvas. It is essential that the adopted peace strategies take into account the realities experienced by these farmers, and that their voice is integrated into the decision -making process. The restoration of peace in this region is essential not only for the economic survival of cultivators, but also for the future of a nation which aspires to a cycle of prosperity. The issues are high and require collective mobilization and rapid intervention. The resilience of these communities could depend on this.