### Security analysis in Kinshasa: towards an integrated approach?
On May 30, 2025, a crucial meeting was held in Kinshasa, under the aegis of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Jacquemain Shabani. This meeting brought together those responsible for the Congolese National Police (PNC), the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) as well as provincial authorities. The subject of this meeting was clear: strengthening security systems in a city that recently saw an upsurge in urban violence, in particular robberies.
#### context and problem of urban security
Kinshasa, with its dense population and its socio-economic challenges, is often witness to criminal incidents that raise public security concerns. According to experts in urban sociology, this increase in banditry can be attributed to various factors, including unemployment, social inequality and governance sometimes deemed deficient. Far from confining themselves to statistics, these problems affect thousands of Congolese on a daily basis, making a rapid and effective intervention by the authorities.
#### Measures proposed: an integrated approach
At this meeting, several measures were envisaged to counter this wave of insecurity. Among them, we note the increase in mixed PNC-FARDC patrols, the reinforced control of motorcycles, as well as the implementation of a green number to allow citizens to easily signal suspicious behavior. These laudable initiatives raise the question of their long -term effectiveness if they are not accompanied by a broader reflection on the deep causes of insecurity.
The governor of Kinshasa, Daniel Bumba Lubaki, mentioned a “very muscular” operation in connection with the Ndobo operation, aimed at intensifying the fight against the robbers. If the intensification of security efforts is essential, it would be relevant to wonder if an overly repressive approach could also cause negative reactions on the part of the population. The balance between security and respect for human rights remains a delicate exercise in an already tense context.
### Essential citizen involvement
The involvement of citizens is a central element of the strategy proposed by the government. It is essential that the population is both a partner and beneficiary of these security efforts. The creation of a green number is a step in this direction, but it is also crucial to support this measure of awareness campaigns to encourage the participation of citizens.
In addition, the establishment of dialogue spaces between security forces and communities could strengthen mutual trust and facilitate more efficient cooperation. Similar initiatives have been observed in other regions faced with insecurity problems, where communication and dialogue have helped to appease tensions.
#### Reflections and improvement tracks
At a time when the Congolese government is advocating an “integrated approach”, combining operational intelligence, presence in the field and civic involvement, it is crucial to question the functioning of this synergy. How to ensure that the information collected by the population is processed seriously and effectively by the authorities? What measures are implemented to ensure that the fight against banditry does not also attack the perfectly legal and essential practices for the daily life of the inhabitants?
It is also essential to keep in mind that security is not limited to the repression of crime. A truly integrated approach must include education, vocational training and social support programs, which aim to deal with the deep causes of insecurity. By creating opportunities for young Congolese, the government could reduce the attraction of crime and thus strengthen the tranquility of long -term citizens.
### Conclusion
The measures announced by the Congolese government represent a first step towards a more adequate response to growing insecurity in Kinshasa. However, their success will depend on a truly integrated approach, taking into account the needs and concerns of citizens, combining security and development. The path to follow requires not only attention to crime figures, but also a reflection on the social, economic and psychological conditions which feed this problem. The collaboration between the different stakeholders will be essential to build a more secure and more serene environment for everyone.