**Kinshasa at the crossroads: the fight against urban insecurity**
The Kinshasa garrison military court, sitting in flagrante delicto, recently highlighted a worrying problem that is plaguing major cities in sub-Saharan Africa: urban insecurity. During a hearing held on January 16, 2025, two young men, commonly known as “Kuluna”, were summoned to appear in court for acts of violence and theft. This case raises deeper questions about youth, urban violence and the security measures in place in a region where the fight for public tranquility is crucial.
The term “Kuluna” refers to a group of young people still affected by precarious socio-economic conditions. In this context, the story of Lukoki Nzeka Albert and Kumbu Kwanzambi, two defendants, does not only represent the individual journey of these young men, but a collective problem that challenges the entire Congolese society. Rapid urbanization and the lack of adequate infrastructure often coupled with a lack of employment opportunities contribute to the frustration of these youth.
The first accused, Lukoki, has been linked to a violent assault, despite his denials. His lawyer attempted to prove his innocence by presenting evidence of his employment as a mason. This account highlights the importance of employment in the fight against crime; it is recognized that the lack of work opportunities can incite some young people to commit criminal acts.
On the other hand, the second accused, Kumbu, is accused of stealing a phone from a young woman. This type of crime, although less violent than physical assaults, highlights a growing trend of pickpocketing in large cities. Data from 2021 show that in Kinshasa and other urban centers in Africa, 40% of reported crimes involve theft, a figure that may have increased in the current context of economic and social instability.
Operation Ndobo, launched by the Deputy Prime Minister of Home Affairs, aims to reiterate the government’s commitment to combating crime. However, this operation also raises the question of whether the security response alone is sufficient. Prevention, focused on education and job creation, seems to be an equally essential component in the fight against crime.
When examining the Kuluna phenomenon in Kinshasa, it appears necessary to adopt a multidimensional approach. In addition to repressive actions, it would undeniably be beneficial to support young people through incubation and vocational training programs, as well as cultural initiatives that promote a positive identity in an urban environment. Examples such as the reintegration programs in Tunisia, which have successfully transformed young people from difficult backgrounds into entrepreneurs, could serve as a model.
The gap between the desire for security and the needs of young people contributes to a cycle of continuous violence, hindering peace and socio-economic development. If Kinshasa and other Congolese metropolises are to embark on the path to sustainable development, real structural reforms are necessary. By combining repression, education and socio-economic inclusion, the country can hope to reverse the trend of increasing violence, thus restoring hope to entire generations.
The case of the Kuluna is not a simple news item; it represents a call for collective reflection on the means of strengthening security while supporting young people. An imperative debate at a time when the darkness of urban violence seeks to obscure the future in a Congo that aspires to peace and progress.