Residents who fled their homes due to insecurity in Walikale district, in North Kivu province in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), are slowly beginning to return.

The area has seen prolonged instability, forcing many families to abandon their homes in search of safety. However, recent signs of relative calm are encouraging some to make their way back.

Speaking in an interview, journalist Hangi Gerard, who is based in Walikale, said the situation on the ground has improved slightly, although concerns remain.

He noted that while some residents are returning, many are doing so cautiously, uncertain about how long the current stability will last. “People are coming back, but there is still fear,” he explained, pointing to lingering insecurity in parts of the district.

Returning residents are also facing difficult conditions, with limited access to basic services such as food, clean water and adequate shelter.

–ChannelAfrica–