** Conflict in North Kivu: Between ban on mining and armed tensions **
The North Kivu region, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, continues to be the scene of increasing tensions between armed groups and local authorities. Recently, a conflict emerged around the Union of Patriots and Democrats for the Defense of Congo (UPDC), led by Noah Maachano, and the administration of the Katoyi sector. This situation highlights the complex challenges linked to the mining, security and state authority in an area largely affected by instability.
### Context and issues
The immediate origin of this tension lies in the ministerial decree signed on February 12, 2025 by the Minister of Mines, Kizito Pakabomba, who prohibits the illegal exploitation of the region’s mining careers, including that of Kirambo. Classified under “red” status, this career is considered a sensitive site due to the illicit activities that take place there. The authorities justify this measure by the need to counter a supply chain which not only feeds illegal exploitation, but also serves as a financial lever for armed groups.
In theory, these measures should allow the State to regain control of a long disputed territory, often under the control of armed groups which engage in the trade of mining resources. However, reality on the ground reveals a persistent friction between the desire to regulate the state and the dynamics of power exercised by these groups.
### Triggering the crisis
On May 19, as part of a police operation, nine handicrafts working illegally were arrested in Kirambo. This intervention quickly angered Noah Maachano, who reacted by demanding the immediate release of the Creusers. The fact that the latter are often vulnerable actors, seeking to earn a living in an extremely difficult economic context, raises a crucial question: how to reconcile the efforts of the state to regulate mining exploitation with the survival needs of the local population?
The situation took a more dramatic turn when Maachano ordered the arrest of the police officer responsible for the operation, leading to the capture of the latter’s wife and his confinement in Remeka. This sequestration, described as arbitrariness by human rights organizations, raises concerns about the vulnerability of individuals in conflict contexts.
### Reactions and implications
The immediate reaction of human rights organizations highlights the need for a more nuanced approach in local conflict management. If the prohibition of illicit mining is a step towards responsible governance, the way it is applied requires being thought more widely, integrating the socio-economic reality of the actors involved.
Armed groups, such as the UPDC, often find themselves in a position where they say they represent the interests of the local population, even if their way of acting may seem contradictory to this discourse. This duality creates challenges for the authorities, which must navigate between the need to restore the rule of law and the need to initiate a constructive dialogue with the armed groups, which, de facto, influence the daily life of the inhabitants.
### What solution tracks?
In order to provide a constructive response to this crisis, several tracks could be explored:
1. ** Community commitment **: The establishment of open dialogues between the authorities, the armed groups and the local population could help understand the real motivations behind the artisanal mining.
2. ** Reintegration programs **: Develop economic alternatives for handicrafts, allowing them to provide for their needs without resorting to the illegal exploitation of resources.
3. ** Strengthening of state authority **: work to restore confidence in state institutions, ensuring protection of human rights and sanctioning abuses, whether they come from the authorities or armed groups.
4. ** Awareness and education **: Inform about the consequences of illegal mining on security, the environment and the local economy, while generating a culture of respect for laws.
This Masisi conflict represents a facet of the challenges encountered by many regions plagued by instability. The search for a balance between regulation, security and human rights will be essential to promote lasting peace. The path is strewn with pitfalls, but a engaging and participative approach could offer long -term viable solutions.