** Kinshasa: the supervision of young people as a response to urban banditry **
On May 17, 2025, the town of Matete in Kinshasa was the scene of an exchange enriching around the complexity of urban banditry which affected the Congolese capital. During a poignant statement, the provincial deputy Diyabanza Mwananene brought to light a central challenge: the supervision of young people. This observation raises crucial questions, not only on the criminal phenomenon, but also on the socio-economic and educational issues that surround it.
### An alarming observation: the rise of banditry
Kinshasa, with its dense and dynamic population, faces a visible increase in banditry, especially among youth. The “Kuluna”, these groups of young people involved in criminal activities, are often perceived as the symptoms of a deeper evil. The intervention of the deputy highlights the feeling of abandonment felt by many young people, who, although surrounded by potential, are struggling to find their way in an environment often marked by economic and social despair.
Mwananene underlines that this situation is the result of a lack of supervision and support. This observation resonates with a global reality: many studies show that an appropriate supervision can significantly reduce deviant behavior by offering young people constructive alternatives and a sense of belonging.
### Supervisory through sport: a possible way
The deputy, with his experience as a founder of a judo club, offers a proactive approach: the supervision of young people through sport. This suggestion deserves to be explored more. Sport, by its nature, can play an essential role in the personal development of young people, by instilling them values such as discipline, cooperation and perseverance. Many sports programs have already demonstrated their effectiveness in various contexts around the world.
However, it is important not to reduce the solution to a simple sports program. Supervision requires a holistic approach, integrating education, mental health and community development. How can the government, local communities and NGOs collaborate to create an environment conducive to the development of youth? What resources would be necessary to set up sustainable initiatives?
### Towards a collective reflection
The imprint of poverty, lack of opportunities and ineffectiveness of certain social systems should not be overlooked. Lack of access to quality education and stable jobs can exacerbate frustrations among young people. In this context, the supervision of young people should not only be limited to occasional activities. It must be included in a broader strategy, involving structural reforms in terms of education and economics.
It is also essential to involve young people themselves in this process. Instead of considering them only as beneficiaries of initiatives, how could they be players in change in their communities? The mobilization of young people for local projects can not only reduce banditry, but also strengthen social fabric and create positive leaders.
### Conclusion: the future at the heart of the issues
The declaration of Diyabanza Mwananene sheds precious light on a complex problem. The supervision of young people as a response to urban banditry underlines the interconnection between education, sport and community commitment. However, a collective reflection is necessary to articulate lasting and inclusive solutions.
In the end, the fight against banditry in Kinshasa can only be the culmination of a concerted effort from the whole of society. There are many challenges, but with a thoughtful and inclusive approach, it is possible to open ways to a future where young people from Matete, and Kinshasa as a whole, will be able to flourish.