Lubumbashi, 13 April 2016- The United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) and the Civil Society Interprovincial Consultation Framework of the Grand Katanga organized, in Lubumbashi on Tuesday, 12 April 2016, a day of reflection on the security situation in the capital of the former Katanga province, and discussions focused on reinforced security mechanisms and collaboration with the population to combat the growing insecurity within the community.

Indeed, civil society representatives described an alarming security situation in the main towns of the four new provinces into which the former Katanga province has been divided. This is particularly true in the town of Lubumbashi, where insecurity is growing at a worrying rate, with gunshots being heard on every single night and violent death being reported on a regular basis.  There is also the violent phenomenon of mob justice, as well as cases of armed robbery, and cases of child abduction by organized gangs. 

This roundtable sought to raise awareness, particularly among members of the DRC security services.  So those mobilized by MONUSCO, through its Civil Affairs section, to attend this session included representatives from the Congolese National Police, the DRC Armed Forces, the military and civilian justice system, the Congolese immigration services (DGM), and the Office of Customs and Excises (OFIDA). 

At the conclusion the day, the participants called for intensified public awareness activities to highlight the need for members of the population to denounce any illicit presence and circulation of weapons in their respective communities. They also called for establishing mixed security cells in the different communities, as well as training executives and officers on security management.  

Text and Photos Madeleine Waila