DRC: Over 50 people killed in Tanganyika province August 4

Event

More than 50 people have been killed in clashes between two ethnic groups (the Twa pygmies and the Luba people) near Kalemi (Tanganyika province) on Friday, August 4, according a statement by aid workers on Sunday, August 6. The death toll is the largest between the two groups in several months, and aid workers said most of the casualties were Luba people. United Nations (UN) officials stated that the clashes have exacerbated concerns that violence is spreading out of control in the DRC.

Further clashes between the two groups are possible in the coming days.

Context

The pygmies who live in the Great Lakes region, have fought the Luba for decades over inequalities between the Bantu villageers and the Twa hunters, who are reportedly excluded from access to land and basic services.

The number of people displaced in the Congo has more than doubled to 3.7 million since August 2016, according a statement released by the UN in May 2017.

Advice

The political and security situation in DRC is complex. Travelers should consider making contingency plans in the event of violent political demonstrations, which should be avoided, and keep abreast of the developing situation.  Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas may be considered off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.