Hundreds of families displaced by demolitions in Lualaba spend nights outside provincial assembly

The provincial government of Lualaba has forcibly displaced hundreds of families in Kolwezi, leaving them with nowhere to go. These families, who claim to have legally acquired their land, are now living in dire conditions outside the provincial assembly building. They sleep on the ground, struggle to meet basic needs, and improvise meals, all while their homes lie in ruins.

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After the demolition of their homes on the Golf ISTM site, in Kolwezi, hundreds of families are now spending the night under the stars in front of the building of the Provincial Assembly of Lualaba.

The government justifies these demolitions as necessary for the modernization and expansion of Kolwezi airport, aiming to meet international standards. However, the affected residents insist they received no compensation or support for relocation. This blatant disregard for the livelihoods of its citizens raises serious questions about the provincial administration's priorities and its commitment to the well-being of its people.

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These victims claim to have received no compensation or relocation assistance.

This situation highlights a critical issue in many developing regions: the conflict between infrastructure development and the rights of ordinary citizens. While modernization is often presented as progress, its human cost can be devastating if not managed with empathy and fairness. The provincial assembly must address this crisis immediately, ensuring justice and adequate support for these displaced families.

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These demolitions are part of a project to modernize Kolwezi airport and widen its runway to conform to international standards.