Restored bridges, a refurbished farm road and newly installed solar streetlights. MONUSCO officially handed over several Quick Impact Projects on 14 October 2025 to local authorities and community representatives in the territories of Mahagi and Djugu. Implemented in partnership with communities, these initiatives enhance security, promote social cohesion and boost local trade in areas long affected by armed conflict.

Infrastructure improving mobility and safety
In Mahagi territory, Nepali peacekeepers restored a 300 metre stretch of the Amee Nioka road that had become impassable, cutting off all movement. Farmers had to take long detours to reach markets, often exposing themselves to attacks and looting.

The restored road now enables civilians and security forces (PNC, FARDC and MONUSCO) to move more easily, particularly during security incidents. “Before, we had to take a detour of more than 40 kilometres to reach Nioka, through Ngote or Bhali Londoni, which added another 30 kilometres. Today, we travel just 15 kilometres,” explained a local official. Residents said the project has helped open up several localities and improve daily life for students, traders and families, especially during the rainy season.

“We didn’t have the means to build this bridge. This project will really help our community,” said Zate Ubegyu, a community leader representing the chief of the Panduru chieftaincy. Additional drainage work was also carried out along the Drangadha River, between Djupakpeshe and Zengo, improving access to National Road 27 linking Bunia and Mahagi.

Projects bringing communities closer together
In Djugu territory, similar projects are helping strengthen ties between communities. A bridge has been built over the Lidda River, connecting Fataki and Libi. Designed to handle loads of up to 30 tonnes, it replaces unsafe wooden crossings and facilitates movement between the Walendu Djatsi and Walendu Pitsi communities, once divided by conflict.

“This bridge is a symbol of peace. In the past, people didn’t visit each other. When it rained, they couldn’t go to the market, the fields or school; they had to cross through the water. Now exchanges have resumed. It’s a positive sign for unity and social cohesion,” said Ben, President of the Fataki Youth Association.

In Bhali, forty solar streetlights were installed at the market and the health centre. With support from local authorities, the project has reduced nighttime crime and improved safety for patients going to the hospital. “Before, thieves used the darkness to rob our shops. Now, thanks to the streetlights, the market stays open until 10 p.m. and our goods are safe. Since the lights were installed, security has greatly improved,” said Dali Jean Maurice, head of the local Chamber of Commerce.

More than 100,000 people directly benefit from these community projects, part of MONUSCO’s broader efforts to promote stability, security and local development in Ituri, a province still recovering from years of violence.