Support to Human Security in Northern Katanga Through Early Recovery and Capacity-Building of Local Populations in Prevention and Resolution of Conflicts in the Territory of Nyunzu

Between 1998 and 2006 violence among armed groups in Northern Katanga in the Democratic Republic of the Congo triggered the displacement of some 180,000 persons across the province and into neighbouring Zambia and Tanzania. In late 2013, a further humanitarian emergency erupted in the region as rebel groups destroyed 600 homes and displaced an additional 400,000 people. Consequently, the presence and influence of residual armed rebel groups continue to jeopardize people’s personal security, especially women and children who are often the target of gender-based violence and forced recruitment into rebel armies. In addition to the sporadic eruptions of armed violence, the conflict between communities over land ownership is creating inter- and intra-communal tensions as refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) begin to return home.

The programme’s goal is to strengthen human security in Northern Katanga’s Nyunzu district through integrated and targeted interventions that support socio-economic recovery while empowering conflict-affected communities to participate in the reconstruction and reconciliation efforts. Specifically, this goal will be achieved by: (i) building the capacities of local leaders and communities to manage and resolve conflicts; (ii) restoring livelihoods and economic and agricultural activities and expanding the assets of returnees, IDPs and members of the host communities; and (iii) increasing access to and quality of social services, as well as improving local infrastructure.

KEY MATERIALS
Programme Summary