Ituri displaced persons praise peacekeepers' role in their protection

In the Ituri region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, thousands of internally displaced people attribute their survival to the presence of MONUSCO peacekeepers. These testimonies, gathered during the International Day of UN Peacekeepers, underscore the vital role of the UN forces deployed in areas plagued by armed violence, particularly in the Djugu territory.

Residents in various displacement camps expressed deep gratitude towards the UN peacekeeping forces. "MONUSCO protects us day and night. Thanks to them, we, the displaced, are still alive," shared several inhabitants of the camps located in the region. Since the current cycle of violence began in Ituri in 2017, the MONUSCO force has been instrumental in protecting hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals residing in sites such as Lodha, Djaiba, Plaine Savo, Rhoe, and Bayo.

Peacekeepers conduct daily patrols to prevent attacks by active armed groups in the region. According to camp officials, this presence has significantly reduced casualties. Beyond securing the camps, the peacekeepers also ensure the safety of agricultural access routes, enabling displaced people to reach their fields. They also provide security along the Route Nationale 27, a strategic provincial axis, to guarantee the free movement of people and goods against the threat of ambushes by armed groups.

Ruphin Makpela, the administrator of the Djugu territory, stated that the role of the peacekeepers is indispensable in this part of Ituri. General David Mushimba, commander of the 32nd military region, added that the peacekeepers also support the FARDC in operations to track down armed groups active in Djugu and Irumu. They are also involved in training soldiers deployed on the front lines. In recognition of this crucial contribution to civilian security, some customary authorities, including the chief of Walendu Pitsi, have requested the deployment of peacekeepers to their areas to enhance population protection.