ITURI: STRATEGIC MOMENTUM FOR PEACE – DEPUTY NATIONAL COORDINATOR OF P-DDRCS SUPERVISES DISARMAMENT OPERATIONS IN BUNIA
Bunia, 30 April 2025 – His Excellency Madam Marie Chantal LUMBA TSHIMANGA, Deputy National Coordinator for Technical and Operational Affairs of the National Program for Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery and Stabilization (P-DDRCS), arrived in Bunia, the capital of Ituri Province, as part of a high-level field mission to oversee ongoing disarmament operations.
This mission follows the recent launch of disarmament and demobilization activities targeting fighters from the Zaïre group in the locality of Kototo, operations which are expected to progressively expand to other communities across the Djugu territory.
Upon arrival, H.E. Ms. LUMBA TSHIMANGA was received by Mr. Nathanaël MULUNDA, Chief of Staff to the National Coordinator, along with the interim Provincial Coordinator of Ituri, Mr. Flory KITOKO, and his team. She chaired a working session with the provincial staff of P-DDRCS to review the progress of field operations. Each department presented a detailed status report, and the Deputy Coordinator took the opportunity to convey strategic guidance from P-DDRCS National Coordinator while commending staff for their dedication.
In a move symbolizing institutional collaboration, she also paid a courtesy visit to the acting provincial governor, H.E. Police Commissioner Raus TCHALWE, reaffirming the strong coordination between the national DDRCS framework and provincial authorities.
This visit reflects the firm commitment of the President of the Republic and Chair of the P-DDRCS Steering Committee, H.E. Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, to deploy DDRCS as a key pillar for peace and stability in eastern DRC. The gradual expansion of operations throughout Djugu aligns with growing voluntary disengagement from armed groups by combatants seeking reintegration into civilian life.
Backed by national and local authorities and supported by international partners such as MONUSCO, this momentum is vital for sustainable peace. The proactive involvement of senior leadership —including National Coordinator H.E. Professor Jean de Dieu Désiré NTANGA NTITA—strengthens operational effectiveness and demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring state authority and protecting civilians.
Prior to this Ituri mission, H.E. Ms. LUMBA TSHIMANGA had just concluded oversight of disarmament and demobilization operations in Beni, North Kivu, targeting Maï-Maï armed groups—further demonstrating the national program’s comprehensive, coordinated approach in accordance with the P-DDRCS Strategic Plan.
P-DDRCS Communication Cell
