### Territorial dispute in Kasai: challenges and search for peaceful solutions
On April 15, 2025, a press release highlighted a delicate situation in Kasai, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, concerning a border dispute between the Kele and Luba communities. This problem, which could seem local at first glance, is part of a broader context of ethnic tensions and stories of delimitation from the territories that exacerbate rivalries in the region.
#### Historical context
It is essential to recognize that field disputes at the heart of this case are not new in the history of Kasai. The territorial limits are often fluctuating, shaped by administrative decisions which do not always take into account the cultural and social reality of local populations. Conflicts linked to these limits can go back to decades, affected by colonial inheritances and administrative policies that have left deep consequences.
#### A proactive parliamentary approach
The meeting between the caucus of national deputies of the province of Kasai and the president of the National Assembly, Professor Vital Kamerhe, reflects a political will to find peaceful solutions to this dispute. André Mushongo, MP for Tshikapa, highlighted the demand for clarification of the Kele community concerning the limits and redeployment of border bearings, thus pointing the importance of initiatives that attack the root of the problem.
The idea of making a parliamentary visit to the territories concerned to listen to the different communities is an encouraging sign, symbolizing a collective approach aimed at promoting dialogue. MP Guy Mafuta stressed the importance of prudence and wisdom in private and public interactions, an attitude that could, hopefully, help to defuse increasing tensions.
### secure issues
Security is a major issue in this situation. Conflicts linked to borders can quickly degenerate into violence, affecting not only localized communities, but also jeopardizing the stability of the region. Vital Kamerhe’s assertive support for this parliamentary initiative for a field report could therefore be a step towards strengthening security efforts. It is crucial that these efforts are accompanied by measures aimed at building bridges between communities, in order to reduce mistrust and establish peaceful cohabitation.
### towards a constructive dialogue
It is also relevant to include independent mediators or representatives of non -governmental organizations who know the land and local issues well. These actors could play a facilitating role in discussions between communities in order to guarantee that all votes are heard and that the solutions found are really adapted to the needs and realities of the inhabitants.
The current situation raises many questions: how to guarantee that the solutions provided are durable? What are the best practices observed in other territorial conflicts in Africa to prevent similar tensions from exacerbating?
#### Conclusion
The affair of the delimitation of the borders between the Kele and Luba communities in Kasai resonates as a call for reflection on the way of managing territorial disputes in the Democratic Republic of Congo. If the political will seems present with parliamentary initiatives, the implementation of lasting solutions will require continuous commitment, against latent tensions and for the highlighting of peace and harmony. In the end, the resolution of this conflict could serve as a model for other disputes across the country, if it is approached with the serenity and the discernment it requires.