Ethnic clashes escalating out of control
From JEAN KASSONGO in Kinshasa, DRC
KINSHASA, (CAJ News) – THE communal violence engulfing southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo where over 370 000 people have been displaced is spiraling out of control and worsening the humanitarian situation.
Scores have been killed in the ethnic clashes pitting Luba and Twa populations in the province of Tanganyika.
Since July 2016, the province has seen a flare-up in violence between the communities, characterized by extreme levels of violence that has led to massive forced displacement, including in neighboring provinces.
The United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator, Mamadou Diallo, yesterday (Tuesday) called on the humanitarian community to address the life-threatening consequences of the lingering intercommunity conflict.
“We are doing our utmost to respond but our effectiveness depends on unhindered access to those in need,” he said after leading a high-level delegation of UN agencies, donors and NGOs three-day visit to Kalemie and Manono territories in Kasese.
He called on Congolese authorities and community leaders to address the root causes of conflict and displacement.
The conflict is driven by inequalities between Luba villagers and Twa, a hunting and gathering people historically excluded from access to land and basic services.
Hundreds have killed in previous massacres.
“Unless peaceful coexistence is fully restored between the two communities, humanitarian needs will continue to spiral out of control.”
An estimated US$ 40 million (R502) is needed to cover all humanitarian needs, including $20 million for life-threatening needs.
“Our current response capacities are being outstripped by the massive levels of critical needs,” said Diallo.
– CAJ News
Short URL: http://cajnewsafrica.com/?p=18884
Posted by 
