** Uvira, between government promises and local reality: the visit of Guy Kabombo Mwandiamvita under the magnifying glass **
On April 7, Uvira, a strategic city in South Kivu, welcomed the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Guy Kabombo Mwandiamvita. His visit, an imprint of an official support, raises questions about the nature of the central government’s commitments towards areas prey to socio -political tensions. Beyond the reassuring speeches of the Minister, what is the daily reality of the inhabitants of Uvira and how does this visit are part of a broader context of military and civil governance in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)?
### A symbolic welcome
The arrival of Mwandiamvita, accompanied by military and civil personalities, did not fail to impose a certain shine. It was the vice-government Jean Jacques Elakano who directed his welcome, symbolizing a desire for cooperation between the State and the local authorities. However, beyond the apparent conviviality of these meetings, it is crucial to question the real influence of this type of visit to the daily lives of the citizens of Uvira.
### PROMES AND SOCIAL COSESION
During his intervention, Mwandiamvita reaffirmed the support of President Félix Tshisekedi to the inhabitants of Uvira, posing as a messenger of a strong commitment to social cohesion and unity in the face of security challenges. A promise which, in theory, resonates with the aspirations of a population which has often been left in indifference. Speeches on national unity, far from being simple rhetorical platitudes, must materialize in concrete actions, such as the strengthening of infrastructure, improving living conditions, and fair and fair access to justice.
### Dynamic contextualization
To fully understand the impact of this visit, it is essential to remember that the city of Uvira has long been the scene of armed conflicts and abuses. Data from non -governmental organizations and international bodies report an increase in violence and a deterioration in the living conditions of populations for several years. In 2020, the report of the Humanitarian Affairs Coordination Office (OCHA) estimated that nearly 1.5 million people were moved because of the Congolese east conflicts.
The words of Mwandiamvita, although elevated, therefore seem to detonate with the reality of the areas affected by armed groups and human rights abuses. Indeed, the need for a unity mentioned by the Minister cannot ignore the economic and social inequalities that cross this region. The problem does not reside only in an external threat perception, but also in the daily life of citizens who fight against food crises, health and education.
### Renewal or continuity?
Another aspect to be considered is the designation of Brigadier General Dunia as the new commander of the 33rd military region. A position that should arouse questions about his strategic vision to deal with realities in the field. Could the integration of a new military leadership bring a wind of renewal in a region marked by the nostalgia for military interventions often considered to be ineffective? An analysis of past interventions indicates a tendency to the problem, where military solutions have not always resolved the in-depth socio-economic issues.
### Statistical reflection
According to recent data from the National Institute of Statistics and UNICEF Studies, 60% of children in schooling in Uvira are not going to school. An alarming situation which calls for both proactive government responses and civil society initiatives. In this context, Guy Kabombo’s mission could serve as a megaphone for realities often ignored by national decision-makers.
### Conclusion: Towards a concrete commitment
The visit of Guy Kabombo Mwandiamvita to Uvira, although academized by a discourse of unity and support, must be accompanied by a political willingly registering. At a time when regional instability and community tensions open the door to insurgent movements, a real commitment on the ground is essential. This not only requires social cohesion, as the Minister pointed out, but also a concerted action in education, health, and economic development to see hope in a population long left. The future of the children of Uvira, mentioned by Mwandiamvita, is thus based on concrete acts, and not on devoid of rigorous management.
It is with a critical look and renewed expectations that the inhabitants of Uvira and the entire DRC await the realization of the commitments made by their leaders. An arduous path strewn with pitfalls that will require flawless political will and strong community commitment.