Background

Ituri is a region bordering Uganda in the east and Sudan in the north. It is one of the eastern DRC regions that were seriously affected by the ethnic conflict which broke out in 1996. The UN estimates that about 50,000 people died in the region since the war began in 1996. Hundreds of thousands were displaced.

Despite some elements of calm in the DRC, the mistrust and hatred between communities will take time to heal. Many Christian organizations are now providing counseling to help heal victims of trauma.

The encouraging news is that many parts of Ituri are now accessible, and many families are able to farm their land again to boost food production. In addition, more schools and health centers have reopened their doors. The economy is starting to develop.

Women are managing to rebuild their small businesses with as little as $50. The markets have now picked up despite the world economic crises. This nice development must be protected and encouraged.