As part of the implementation of the project to support the peace process and the stability of the territories in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, IOM involved 3,600 beneficiaries in the execution of High-Intensity Labor works launched in September 2024 in the territories of Fizi and Uvira (South Kivu province). 

These efforts respond to the rehabilitation of community infrastructure destroyed during conflicts. This includes public markets, hospitals, and agricultural access roads. The aim of this collective dynamic is to improve the access of conflict-affected communities to basic social services and to contribute to the economic revival of these intervention areas. 

The participation of former combatants encourages the sustainable reintegration of members into the peace process and the Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery, and Stabilization Program (P-DDRCS) launched by the Congolese authorities and their partners. This initiative aims to support the long-term socio-economic recovery of communities previously affected by conflicts while strengthening social cohesion. Through this approach, these individuals also contribute to the restoration, peace-building, and economic development of conflict-affected areas. 

Mr. Thimothée Bakanirwa Ruhindwa, Deputy Administrator of the Uvira Territory, welcomes this initiative, which he believes could encourage other young people who still possess weapons to choose the path of peace: "I think we can also achieve peace by bringing communities together. And these works bring communities together. This is what the President of the Republic has done through the P-DDRCS. I urge the population to help us raise awareness among children who still hold weapons to come and surrender them to this program so that they can be directed towards development." 

The territories of Fizi and Uvira are considered areas with fragile stability. For nearly two decades, the region has been plagued by severe tensions and recurrent conflicts. These violences stem from underlying conflicts that disrupt the relationships between so-called indigenous and non-indigenous populations. This project facilitates community reintegration for demobilized individuals and affected populations while providing jobs to vulnerable people, primarily women and youth.