Increase in insecurity and looting in the cafe areas of the Lubero territory in the Democratic Republic of Congo


** Analysis of the rise of insecurity in Lubero: between banditry and humanitarian crisis **

Since March, Lubero’s territory, located in southern North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has faced an alarming resurgence of insecurity. The localities of Mighobwe, Kikuvo and Kirumba are particularly affected by banditry incidents, which are mainly manifested by thefts, looting of coffee deposits and attacks on shops. This climate of uncertainty is part of a disturbed economic context, exacerbated by a deeply rooted monetary crisis.

### Insecurity dynamics

The rise in organized crime in this region can be analyzed from different angles. First, economic precariousness is an often overlooked factor. The high market value of agricultural products, including coffee – which is currently sold at around 6,000 Congolese francs per kilo – in fact a privileged target for organized bands. The difficult living conditions, combined with the absence of economic prospects, push many individuals towards desperate acts.

Furthermore, it is important to note the continuous presence of armed groups, known as “anties”, which should, in theory, guarantee the safety of areas. However, it seems that their control is uneven; Some main roads benefit from relative tranquility, while the remote areas remain in the grip of insecurity. This situation raises questions about the efficiency and legitimacy of these entities responsible for maintaining order.

### Impact on local communities

The inhabitants of Lubero are in a delicate position, navigating between economic precariousness and increasing insecurity. Despair is palpable, and communities express their frustration in the face of the lack of adequate support from the security authorities. Their call for help is part of an urgent need for practical measures which can only be the fruit of promises, but which engage in concrete actions to restore calm and protect goods.

The health dimension also aggravates the table. In the Kayna health area, the lack of public funding for health care raises concerns. The NGO Care International as best they can to provide support, but their ability to fill the gaps is limited. The abandonment of potentially vital health infrastructure for the population reveals another facet of the crisis. The link between insecurity and public health deserves to be deepened, as the two issues are mutually strengthened.

### A need for intervention

Faced with this disturbing situation, several questions arise: what interventions could be set up to reverse this trend? How could provincial and national authorities strengthen security in these vulnerable areas? The urgency of a coordinated response is no doubt.

It would also be relevant to question the perception of the anti -esteem by the population. By improving the transparency and commitment of these groups to the communities they claim to protect, it is possible to regain the confidence of the population and to create a more stable environment. An inclusive approach, involving community leaders in decision -making, could promote solutions more suited to local realities.

### Conclusion

The situation in Lubero is indicative of broader tensions that affect the Democratic Republic of Congo. The combination of rising banditry, an acute economic crisis, and a health system for distress forges a complex table that requires immediate attention. It is only through an in -depth dialogue, and the implementation of adapted policies, that we can really provide lasting solutions to the challenges faced by these communities. The looks must now turn to concrete actions that could restore not only security, but also the hope of a better future for Lubero residents.

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