In the heart of the city of Goma, in the province of North Kivu, currency exchange, money transfer and prepaid card sales have been the subject of a radical decision by the mayor, Commissioner Faustin Kapend. From now on, these activities will be limited to a specific time window, not exceeding 5 p.m. This measure, which may seem insignificant at first glance, is in reality of crucial importance in the fight against urban crime that is rife in the region.
Indeed, in recent days, the operators of these financial services have been the target of unscrupulous bandits, leading to sometimes fatal robberies. Thus, to protect residents and their property, the mayor has taken this firm decision, aimed at limiting the exposure of citizens to these risks. It is undeniable that the safety of citizens must be an absolute priority, and this restrictive measure appears to be a direct response to this pressing need.
Every act of crime committed during these currency exchange or money transfer operations represents a tangible threat to the population, jeopardizing the peace and security of residents. Recent tragedies in the region, such as the fatal robbery at a money transfer house, or the brutal murder of a young mobile phone credit reseller, cannot be ignored. These events demonstrate the gravity of the situation and fully justify the mayor’s resolute response.
The population of Goma has reacted in a variety of ways to this measure. While some welcome this initiative as a step forward towards better public security, others express more mixed opinions, stressing the need for increased communication between the authorities and citizens to explain the ins and outs of this decision. It is essential that all actors involved in this process, from government officials to ordinary citizens, are included in an open and constructive dialogue in order to promote mutual understanding and effective collaboration.
In sum, the decision by the Mayor of Goma to limit monetary transactions to a specific time is aimed at protecting the population from the growing threat of urban crime. It embodies a proactive and necessary response to an acute security problem that cannot be ignored. By encouraging dialogue and cooperation, it is possible to build trust and solidarity within the community, thereby strengthening the city’s resilience in the face of these challenges.