DRC: Protest scheduled in Goma due to water shortage Oct. 18

Event

Members of the LUCHA civil society group have called for demonstrations to take place in Goma (North Kivu province) on Thursday, October 18, to protest potable water shortages. The group will reportedly gather at the regional offices of Regideso, the government utility agency, to submit complaints regarding limited potable water service the city and to call for the resignation of the agency's regional director. Clashes between security forces and LUCHA members have occurred in recent months, and authorities may attempt to disperse any potential gatherings or rallies.

Context

LUCHA was formed by students in the city of Goma in 2012 to promote dialogue on social issues. The group reportedly staged a sit-in protest at the Regideso offices on October 16 in Lubumbashi and has indicated it will maintain pressure against the agency head in Goma until potable water services are established in all of the city's district.

Advice

Individuals in Goma, should monitor the situation, maintain a high degree of situational awareness, and avoid all rallies and demonstrations due to the risk of violence.