PERSISTENCE OF IDENTITY CONFLICT BETWEEN "TWA AND LUBA" IN KABALO TERRITORY: INEFFECTIVENESS OF RESOLUTION STRUCTURES AND MECHANISMS

The purpose of this study is to examine from a methodological perspective the factors of ineffective conflict resolution structures (local authorities, civil society, local conflict resolution councils, United Nations agencies and NGOs) and the mechanisms necessary to promote peaceful coexistence between the Twa and Luba communities in the territory of Kabalo. 1.0 INTRODUCTION Since 2013, the resurgence of identity conflicts in Kabalo territory has led to serious human rights violations and the forced displacement of thousands of people resulting in a series of humanitarian emergencies. The identity conflict between Twa (representing some 15% of the total population of the territory) and Luba (representing 75%) has its roots, on the one hand, in the long-standing economic and political marginalization of the Twa by the Luba, social discrimination, lack of sustainable economic opportunities, access to livelihoods, barriers to equal rights, poor access to land, exclusion from local political decision-making, and on the other hand, poor access to basic social services and natural resources in Kabalo territory. Since the beginning of the conflict, hundreds of people have been killed and thousands have been displaced from their homes. The weapons used in the conflict are often arrows, axes and machetes rather than guns.