BUTEMBO: COMMUNITY REINTEGRATION – EX‑COMBATANTS PLAY A FOOTBALL MATCH WITH AT‑RISK YOUTH
Butembo, November 19, 2025. As part of community socialization activities organized by the territorial office of the Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery and Stabilization Program (P‑DDRCS) in Butembo–Lubero, a friendly football match was held on Tuesday between ex‑combatants and at‑risk youth at the ITAV stadium in Butembo. The game ended with a score of 5–4 in favor of the at‑risk youth.
The match kicked off at 12:30 p.m. in the presence of Katembo Masinda Eric, Head of the P‑DDRCS Butembo–Lubero office, in a convivial and warm atmosphere that reflected the shared commitment to strengthening social cohesion.
By halftime, the at‑risk youth had taken the lead, dominating the ex‑combatants 3–2. The encounter was played in a spirit of mutual respect and joy, symbolizing the value of living together in peace.
This sporting event not only promoted reconciliation and coexistence but also strengthened ties between ex‑combatants undergoing reintegration and the local community.
For the P‑DDRCS, under the leadership of Professor Jean de Dieu Désiré Ntanga Ntita, PhD, such initiatives embody the vision of His Excellency Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Republic. They foster mutual trust and consolidate stabilization efforts in the region, demonstrating that reintegration is not only a technical process but also a human and social journey.
P‑DDRCS Communication Unit
