Schools in North Kivu Closed Amid Wazalendo Militia Violence and Security Concerns

Schools in Vikindwe, North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, have been closed for over a month due to Wazalendo militia activities. The conflict escalated in February after a student was assaulted, leading to death threats and gunfire that disrupted education.

The headmaster of Vikindwe Primary School has called for intervention from authorities to restore safety. In Njiapanda, a cautious resumption of classes has begun, though attendance remains low due to parental fears related to security and ongoing militia violence from the Union of Patriots for the Liberation of Congo (UPLC).

Reports indicate that Wazalendo militia members are involved in various abuses against civilians, including looting and illegal roadblocks. A student was killed during militia clashes on November 12, highlighting the ongoing violence despite the militia's supposed alliance with the Congolese army against Rwandan aggression.