Ituri urges armed groups and youth to join P-DDRSC process

In Ituri province, Lieutenant-Colonel Emmanuel Libandi, coordinator of the Armed Defence Reserve (RAD), has urged members of armed groups to join the national disarmament and stabilisation process (P-DDRSC) and pursue integration into the RAD and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC)  according to first reporting by  Bunia Actualité.

Speaking in an interview published in late January, Libandi criticised individuals and groups opposed to the reintegration of ex-combatants through the P-DDRSC, describing them as “obstacles to peace,” and saying some detractors were “sorcerers,” in remarks that underscore how contested the reintegration debate remains in parts of the province.

Libandi argued that long-term stabilisation in Ituri cannot depend on military operations alone. He presented public awareness and community dialogue as essential tools for reducing recruitment and rebuilding trust, summarising his approach with the phrase: “Awareness is more powerful than a missile.”

His message aligns with the stated logic of the P-DDRCS framework, which is designed to support disarmament, demobilisation and community recovery alongside broader stabilisation efforts, including reinsertion support for ex-combatants and targeted community interventions.

Libandi said the approach in Ituri combines security actions with civilian initiatives such as community reconciliation and youth development. He situated these efforts within the province’s state of siege administration under military authorities led by Lieutenant General Johnny Luboya, the military governor and commander of the 32nd Military Region.

He also highlighted the involvement of religious leaders in peace-focused activities aimed at strengthening social cohesion. Libandi reported a reduction in community tensions in some areas and said teams have been able to access localities that were previously difficult to reach points he presented as early indicators of progress, while stressing the need for continued engagement.

In closing, Libandi appealed directly to young people in Ituri to “join forces with the state,” framing youth participation as central to lasting stabilisation and the consolidation of peace in the province.